NGMC performs first non-invasive liver cancer treatment

The operating room team at NGMC Gainesville just before completing the first histotripsy procedure. From L-R: Caroline Chotas, RN; Kristy Foutty, CST; Casey Patton, RN, CNOR; Stephanie Sullins, CST; Shannon Sutton, RN, CNOR; Nelson Royall, MD; Ambar Riffi Temsamani, PA-C; Cierra Triggs, CST. (Northeast Georgia Medical Center)

Northeast Georgia Medical Center (NGMC) recently completed the first histotripsy procedure in the state. Patients with liver cancer in the southeast can stay closer to home and receive the latest, most advanced care, according to a press release from NGMC Public Relations and Marketing Specialist Emily Kerns.

The procedure was performed Friday April 19 at NGMC Gainesville by Nelson Royall,
MD, a surgeon with Northeast Georgia Physicians Group (NGPG).

Dr. Nelson Royall performs a histotripsy procedure at Northeast Georgia Medical Center in Gainesville. (Northeast Georgia Medical Center)

Histotripsy is an ultrasound-based procedure that offers patients an alternative for treating liver cancer tumors, with no need for incisions or invasive surgery. NGMC is the first hospital in Georgia to perform the procedure. It is one of eight hospitals in the nation to offer histotripsy.

“Performing the first histotripsy procedure at NGMC is not just a milestone for our team,
but a leap forward for the entire state,” Dr. Royall said. “It’s a privilege to be at the forefront of redefining what’s possible in cancer care”

Histotripsy uses focused ultrasound waves to precisely target and break down tissue
without harming surrounding healthy tissue. This approach means more efficient procedures and minimal recovery times. It can also be done without disrupting chemotherapy or other cancer treatments.

Any patient with liver tumors is a potential candidate for histotripsy. This includes tumors that have formed within the liver or those that have spread to the liver from other organs.

For more information about histotripsy at NGMC, visit nghs.com/histotripsy.