HistoSonics has officially launched Europe’s first Edison™ Histotripsy System at Addenbrooke’s Hospital, part of Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, marking a major milestone in the global expansion of non-invasive tumor therapies. Powered by focused ultrasound energy, the Edison system mechanically destroys and liquefies targeted tissue—without incisions, radiation, or thermal damage. This breakthrough was made possible by a generous donation from the Li Ka Shing Foundation, which has long supported technological innovation in healthcare. The installation also received accelerated market access through the UK’s MHRA limited access program, enabling patients to benefit from this therapy sooner.

The Edison system’s primary clinical application is the non-invasive destruction of liver tumors, particularly in cases where surgery is not feasible. Unlike conventional therapies such as ablation or radiation, histotripsy avoids heat-related complications and spares surrounding tissue. The technology is already FDA-cleared in the U.S. and CE marking is underway to expand broader EU access. With active studies also targeting kidney and pancreas tumors, Edison represents a new category in tumor treatment—combining surgical precision with the safety and recovery profile of a non-invasive therapy. The system will be available to both NHS and private patients at Addenbrooke’s, enhancing care equity and clinical research in the UK.

The collaboration between HistoSonics, Cambridge University, and the Li Ka Shing Foundation underscores the importance of philanthropy, academic medicine, and medical innovation working together to accelerate access to advanced care. As the first NHS site to adopt this technology, Addenbrooke’s will not only offer new treatment options to patients but also contribute vital data to help shape the future of tumor management. This deployment reflects a growing global trend toward minimally invasive, precision-focused solutions—ushering in a new era for cancer therapy that prioritizes patient comfort, safety, and clinical effectiveness.

MedTech Spectrum's Summary

European Market Entry with NHS Access: HistoSonics has installed its first Edison™ Histotripsy System in Europe at Addenbrooke’s Hospital, offering non-invasive tumor treatment to both NHS and private patients in the UK.

Powered by Innovation and Philanthropy: The deployment, made possible through a donation from the Li Ka Shing Foundation and MHRA’s expedited market access, reflects the power of public-private collaboration in accelerating access to cutting-edge care.

New Era in Cancer Therapy: As a non-invasive, image-guided technology, Edison offers a safer, incision-free alternative for liver tumor treatment—paving the way for broader adoption of histotripsy as a global standard in oncology.