Developing a non-invasive treatment for bone tumors using ultrasound technology

Image-guided Histotripsy System for Complete, Uniform, and Non-Invasive Ablation of Heterogeneous Osteosarcoma Tumors

NIH-funded research Virginia Polytechnic Inst and St Univ · NIH-11082420

This study is testing a new ultrasound device that gently breaks down bone cancer tumors without surgery, making it a safer option for both kids and adults with osteosarcoma.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionVirginia Polytechnic Inst and St Univ NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Blacksburg, United States)
Project IDNIH-11082420 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research aims to create a new device that uses ultrasound to non-invasively treat osteosarcoma, a type of bone cancer that affects both children and adults. The approach involves using histotripsy, which mechanically breaks down tumors into harmless debris while preserving surrounding healthy tissues. This method could potentially replace traditional surgeries, which often lead to complications and loss of mobility. The research focuses on optimizing treatment strategies to effectively target the diverse characteristics of osteosarcoma tumors.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with osteosarcoma, both children and adults, who are seeking alternative treatment options.

Not a fit: Patients with osteosarcoma who have already undergone extensive treatment or those with tumors that are not suitable for ultrasound ablation may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a safer and more effective treatment option for patients with osteosarcoma, reducing the need for invasive surgeries.

How similar studies have performed: Preliminary studies have shown promising results for using histotripsy in treating tumors, indicating potential success for this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

Blacksburg, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.