Saint Francis Hospital Introduces Histrotripsy: Groundbreaking Tumor-Liquefying Procedure

Saint Francis Hospital in Tulsa welcomes a robotic histotripsy system that transforms the treatment of liver tumors in Oklahoma. Guided by a Saint Francis physician, the Edison system performs histotripsy using precisely focused sound waves to liquefy tumors – no heat, no radiation, no surgery. The procedure happens entirely from outside the body and can destroy tumors in a single outpatient session.

This innovative approach can be a treatment option for patients with inoperable or hard-to-reach tumors, or for those who cannot undergo surgery because of comorbidities or anesthesia risk.

While the Edison robot is currently approved for use on liver tumors, ongoing studies are evaluating its use for kidney and pancreas tumors, with prostate, breast, thyroid, sarcoma and brain treatments expected to follow as the technology advances.

“Histotripsy is not just a breakthrough treatment for our patients with liver cancer – it has real potential to revolutionize cancer treatment for millions of patients in the future,” said Doug Williams, president of Saint Francis Hospital. “We are thrilled to offer this innovative treatment here in Oklahoma and look forward to expanding its possibilities in the years ahead.”

Led by Dr. Guido Sclabas and Dr. Andrew Hendrickson, Saint Francis Hospital will begin offering histotripsy procedures later this month. The Edison system has been adopted by eight of the top 10 U.S. cancer centers, but Saint Francis Hospital will be the only location in Oklahoma – and within 350 miles – where it is available.

Learn more about our Histotripsy service