St. David's Medical Center successfully used a new technology to destroy a liver tumor. Photo: Courtesy of St. David's Medical Center
St. David's Medical Center became the first facility in Central Texas to use a new noninvasive, outpatient procedure to destroy liver tumors.
Why it matters: The novel technology, which was recently approved by the FDA, allows patients to recover more quickly than traditional liver cancer treatment options.
How it works: Shaun McKenzie, medical director of surgical oncology at St. David's Medical Center, performed the procedure, which uses advanced imaging to deliver noninvasive ultrasound waves to target tumor tissue.
The sound waves create microbubbles within the cells of the tumor. The bubbles expand and collapse quickly to release mechanical forces that break down the cells of the tumor tissue.
What they're saying: "This new technology provides a noninvasive, safer option for patients with liver tumors, enabling physicians to restore their quality of life more quickly than traditional liver cancer treatment," McKenzie said.
"We are honored to play a leading role in this new era for the countless patients in Central Texas living with liver tumors."
The big picture: More than 42,000 people in the U.S. will be diagnosed with liver cancer this year, according to the American Cancer Society. Liver cancer deaths have more than doubled since 1980.
