Robotic ultrasound system to non-invasively remove soft tissue sarcoma
Ultrasound-guided robotic histotripsy array system for non-invasive precise and complete ablation of soft tissue sarcoma
['FUNDING_R21'] · PURDUE UNIVERSITY · NIH-11308643
A robotic ultrasound approach aims to precisely destroy soft tissue sarcoma tumors without open surgery for people with large or hard-to-reach tumors.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R21'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | PURDUE UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (WEST LAFAYETTE, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11308643 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Doctors are developing a robot-controlled ultrasound method called histotripsy that uses focused sound waves to mechanically break up tumor tissue without heat or radiation. The system uses real-time imaging to steer and control tiny bubbles that selectively destroy tumor cells while preserving nearby nerves and blood vessels. The team plans hardware and software improvements to make rapid, whole-tumor treatments possible, building on proof-of-concept work in naturally occurring sarcomas in pet dogs. This phase of work focuses on device performance and safety data needed to move toward clinical testing in people.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates would be people with localized soft tissue sarcoma—particularly large tumors or tumors close to nerves or blood vessels—who want alternatives to extensive surgery.
Not a fit: People with widespread metastatic disease, tumors not accessible to focused ultrasound, or cancers other than soft tissue sarcoma are unlikely to benefit from this approach.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could offer a non-invasive way to remove sarcoma tumors while preserving function and reducing the need for wide surgery, radiation, or debilitating treatments.
How similar studies have performed: Early preclinical and veterinary work, including partial ablation in pet dogs, showed promising safety and effectiveness, but complete tumor ablation in people has not yet been demonstrated.
Where this research is happening
WEST LAFAYETTE, UNITED STATES
- PURDUE UNIVERSITY — WEST LAFAYETTE, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: KLAHN, SHAWNA — PURDUE UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: KLAHN, SHAWNA
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions: Cancers