04/20/2026
Ultrasound, traditionally used for imaging, is now being harnessed to treat cancer without surgery. A technique called histotripsy uses high-frequency sound pulses to break apart tumor tissue mechanically. Tiny microbubbles form and collapse within microseconds, destroying cancer cells while leaving surrounding healthy tissue largely intact. Developed by researchers at the University of Michigan, histotripsy has been approved for liver tumors in the US and the UK, and studies show it can successfully eliminate most targeted tumors in a single session. Patients usually recover quickly, often going home the same day.
Focused ultrasound approaches like histotripsy and high-intensity focused ultrasound can also enhance other treatments. Stimulating microbubbles in the bloodstream may temporarily open the blood-brain barrier, allowing drugs to reach tumors more effectively. Ultrasound combined with radiation or chemotherapy can increase tumor cell death while potentially reducing the doses needed, minimizing side effects. Additionally, damaging tumors with sound makes them more visible to the immune system, offering a promising complement to immunotherapy for spurring the body’s natural defenses.
While these technologies are not suitable for all cancers and certain organs can block ultrasound, ongoing research aims to expand their applications. Early studies suggest ultrasound could eventually help treat multiple tumors from a single site, potentially transforming cancer care. Although not a cure, ultrasound-based therapy offers a safer, faster, and less invasive alternative to traditional cancer treatments.
Research Paper 📄
DOI: 10.1148/radiol.233051 ,
DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2023.02.009
