NanoKnife

NanoKnife is a minimally invasive treatment that destroys soft-tissue tumors without surgery. It is especially effective for inoperable or other hard-to-reach tumors in areas like the pancreas, liver, kidneys, and prostate.

The NanoKnife is the first medical technology to use irreversible electroporation (IRE), a groundbreaking technique that targets and destroys tumor cells in soft tissue.

Placement of electrodes

Small electrodes are inserted around the tumor using imaging guidance (CT or ultrasound).

Electrical pulses

Short, high-voltage pulses create microscopic holes in the cancer cells.

Cell death

The damaged cancer cells die naturally over time, and the immune system clears them away.

NanoKnife provides several benefits, including:

• Decreased swelling and scar tissue formation
• Fewer side effects
• Less damage to healthy tissue (through the use of non-thermal energy)
• Minimal postoperative pain
• Procedure can be repeatable if new tumors develop
• Shorter hospital stays
• Quicker recoveries

Potential side effects

• A small risk of bleeding or infection
• Feeling tired for a few days
• Mild nausea (not common)
• Soreness or mild pain where the procedure was done
• Swelling or bruising in the treated area
• Temporary changes in how nearby organs work, depending on the location of the tumor

Most people recover quickly and return to normal activities soon after treatment. Side effects are temporary and improve with time. Your care team will monitor you closely to manage any complications and ensure a smooth recovery.