Singapore is set to transform its oncology landscape with the introduction of ultrasound-based histotripsy trials, a non-invasive technology aimed at improving outcomes for liver, kidney, and pancreatic cancer patients. The Li Ka Shing Foundation and Temasek Trust have committed $8.8 million (SGD12 million) to fund these trials, marking the first of their kind in Southeast Asia. The trials will be conducted at the National Cancer Centre Singapore and the National University Cancer Institute, Singapore, involving 40 patients.
Histotripsy employs focused ultrasound to create microbubbles that expand and collapse, generating shock waves to disintegrate tumours at the cellular level. Unlike traditional surgical or radiation treatments, histotripsy offers a pain-free, bloodless, and incision-free alternative, even for inoperable tumours. Jyoti Sharma, a Medical Devices Analyst at GlobalData, stated, “The advent of histotripsy represents a significant advancement in non-invasive oncology treatment.”
The funding will equip both cancer centres with a histotripsy system each, enhancing Singapore’s position in global cancer research and innovation. Sharma added, “By leveraging advanced technology and fostering cross-sector collaboration, Singapore not only enhances the treatment options available to its local patients but also establishes itself as a regional leader in medical research and innovation.”
This initiative underscores Singapore’s commitment to advancing cancer treatment and could pave the way for broader applications of histotripsy in oncology, potentially offering new hope for patients with previously untreatable tumours.
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