Scientists from the Huntsman Cancer Institute have developed an ultrasound system that can be used to burn away breast cancer tumors.
According to coverage from WINK News, the Muse Magnetic Resonance-Guided Focused Ultrasound System is designed to treat breast tumors without surgery and can be utilized as a simple outpatient procedure.
The system uses MRI to locate breast tumors, then deploys a high-intensity focused ultrasound to destroy them, leaving surrounding tissue and organs unharmed. The entire procedure takes only a couple of hours, giving patients a noninvasive alternative that won’t require a prolonged recovery time or reconstructive surgery.
A special table was developed for use with the Muse to aid with the discomfort of being in an MRI machine for a longer than normal period of time.
The procedure is currently being tested in clinical trials, with researchers anticipating that it could become a viable treatment option for some breast cancer patients within a few years.
Click the link below for the full story from WINK News, which includes a video showcasing the system:
Chad is an award-winning writer and editor with over 15 years of experience working in media. He has a decade-long professional background in healthcare, working as a writer and in public relations.