Mercy Hospital introduces incisionless tumor removal technology

April 1, 2026 - 17:45

A St. Louis hospital is now offering a groundbreaking medical technology that destroys tumors without a single surgical cut. The facility is among the first in the nation to adopt the Edison Histotripsy System, a non-invasive procedure that represents a significant leap forward in patient care.

This innovative technology utilizes focused sound waves, or ultrasound energy, to precisely target and mechanically disintegrate unwanted tissue within the body. The process leaves the treated cells as a liquid acellular slurry, which the body then naturally absorbs and clears away. Because it requires no incisions, the procedure dramatically reduces risks associated with traditional surgery, such as infection, bleeding, and lengthy recovery times.

The introduction of histotripsy offers new hope, particularly for patients with liver tumors who may not be ideal candidates for conventional surgery. The precision of the sound waves helps spare healthy surrounding tissue, aiming for fewer complications and a much faster return to daily life for patients. Hospital officials emphasize that this advancement underscores their commitment to providing leading-edge, minimally invasive treatment options, potentially changing the standard of care for certain oncology patients.