Lee Health debuts new noninvasive liver cancer treatment

Lee Health introduced the Edison System, a breakthrough noninvasive technology that destroys liver tumors with focused sound waves rather than surgery. The histotripsy system, now available at Gulf Coast Medical Center, uses ultrasound pulses guided by a robotic arm to break down cancer cells while sparing healthy tissue. Lee Health officials said the treatment is especially suited for patients who cannot undergo surgery and often allows for same-day discharge. It is currently Food and Drug Administration-approved only for liver tumors but may eventually be expanded to treat kidney and pancreatic cancers. Lee Health leaders said the addition strengthens its growing robotics program, which features advanced systems across cancer, orthopedic, urologic and spine care.