HistoSonics partners with Hong Kong University to introduce new cancer treatment technology

HistoSonics, the developer of the Edison Histotripsy System, has partnered with the University of Hong Kong to introduce a cutting-edge treatment for liver tumours. 

This marks the company’s first collaboration in Asia, made possible through a donation from the Li Ka Shing Foundation.

The partnership comes as Hong Kong University receives its first histotripsy system, with a second system scheduled for delivery to the Chinese University of Hong Kong early next year. These systems, acquired through the support of the Li Ka Shing Foundation, will be deployed in major public hospitals in Hong Kong.

Histotripsy is a form of focused ultrasound technology that uses high amplitude, short pulses to create a “bubble cloud” that mechanically destroys targeted liver tumours. This process occurs within microseconds, generating mechanical forces that can break down tissue at both cellular and sub-cellular levels. 

Unlike traditional treatments such as surgery and radiation therapy, histotripsy is non-invasive and non-thermal, which can help patients avoid common side effects like infections, bleeding, and radiation toxicity.

HistoSonics believes that the unique mechanism of action offered by their proprietary technology could provide significant benefits to patients, particularly in terms of faster recovery times. The Edison Histotripsy System is specifically designed for the non-invasive destruction of liver tumours, including those that are deemed unresectable.

The Li Ka Shing Foundation, led by Mr Li Ka-shing, provided the funding to acquire the two histotripsy systems for Hong Kong’s public hospitals. The Foundation has supported various projects in education, medical services, charity, and anti-poverty programmes.

Li Ka-shing  commented, “treating tumors using the HistoSonics Histotripsy System by forming microbubbles is fascinating.” 

Medical professionals from the University of Hong Kong and the Chinese University of Hong Kong have completed training at HistoSonics’ headquarters in Minneapolis, Minnesota. They plan to begin treating patients with the new technology shortly. This initiative is particularly relevant in Asia, where a large number of patients suffer from liver diseases that can lead to liver tumours.

Mike Blue, CEO and President of HistoSonics, stated:

“We could not be more excited to partner with these two prestigious university hospitals to be the first in Hong Kong to offer our novel therapy to their patients.

“Unfortunately, Asia carries a substantial proportion of the world’s population suffering from diseases that cause liver tumors and based on the experiences from our U.S. launch we are confident that we can begin to make an immediate impact on the quality of life of many of the patients who need it most in this region. We are very grateful for the Foundation's very generous gift and Mr. Li’s personal interest in helping patients in Hong Kong.”