Irreversible electroporation (NanoKnife)
Irreversible electroporation uses short high-voltage pulses that punch permanent holes in tumour cells while sparing nearby vessels and ducts.
Non-thermal ablation used in locally advanced pancreatic cancer near vessels and in focal prostate therapy (FDA 2024 for prostate). Preserves collagenous structures.
Schematic · not to scale
Needle electrodes · µs pulses → membrane pores · Vessel / duct spared
How it works
Microsecond electrical pulses between needle electrodes disrupt membranes irreversibly.
Strengths
- Safe next to vessels and bile ducts
Limitations
- General anaesthesia with paralysis; cardiac synchronisation
- Limited randomised data
Latest papers
topLatest papers · live from Europe PMC
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