Jacksonville, Florida, December 18, 2025
Ascension St. Vincent’s Riverside is now the first hospital in North Florida to adopt the Edison Histotripsy System, a non-invasive technology utilizing focused ultrasound to destroy tumors without incisions or radiation. This innovative treatment promises quicker recovery and less invasive options for patients, marking a significant advancement in cancer care in Jacksonville and beyond. With FDA authorization for liver tumors, this technology also benefits from expanded insurance coverage, enhancing access for patients in need of advanced cancer treatments.
Ascension St. Vincent’s Riverside Introduces Cutting-Edge Cancer Treatment
New non-invasive technology sets a milestone for Jacksonville’s healthcare landscape.
Jacksonville, Florida – Ascension St. Vincent’s Riverside has become the first hospital in North Florida to implement the Edison Histotripsy System, a non-invasive technology that utilizes focused ultrasound to destroy tumors without the need for incisions or radiation. This advancement offers patients a less invasive treatment option with potentially quicker recovery times, which represents a significant achievement in medical technology and a boon for local healthcare.
The Edison Histotripsy System employs high-intensity focused ultrasound to precisely target and liquefy tumor tissue, sparing surrounding healthy structures. This innovative method contrasts sharply with traditional treatments like surgery or radiation, providing a non-thermal, incisionless alternative for tumor destruction. While the system has received FDA marketing authorization for the non-invasive destruction of liver tumors, including those deemed unresectable, it should be noted that the FDA has not evaluated the Edison System for the treatment of any disease, including cancer. The system must only be utilized by physicians who have undergone specific training provided by HistoSonics, in accordance with clinical judgment.
Pioneering Access to Non-Invasive Treatments
Ascension St. Vincent’s Riverside’s adoption of this technology signifies a substantial step in expanding access to innovative, non-invasive cancer treatments in the region. The hospital’s commitment to integrating cutting-edge therapies as a means of enhancing patient care and outcomes reflects a growing trend in the healthcare sector towards advanced, less invasive options.
Growing Recognition of Histotripsy
HistoSonics, the developer of the Edison Histotripsy System, has been leading the way in advancing non-invasive tumor treatments. They have secured major insurance coverage for their liver tumor treatment. For instance, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan now covers this procedure for approximately 4.5 million residents. Furthermore, Elevance Health has expanded insurance coverage for the treatment to approximately 45.4 million members across 14 states, including Florida. These developments showcase a growing recognition of the clinical value of histotripsy and its potential to transform cancer care by providing patients with less invasive treatment options.
Local Leadership in Innovative Cancer Care
As the first hospital in North Florida to offer this treatment, Ascension St. Vincent’s Riverside is poised to become a leader in providing patients with advanced, non-invasive options for tumor management. This aligns with a broader trend of integrating innovative technologies into healthcare, which is essential for improving patient outcomes and enhancing quality of life in Jacksonville and beyond.
FAQ
What is the Edison Histotripsy System?
The Edison Histotripsy System is a non-invasive technology that uses focused ultrasound to precisely target and destroy tumor tissue without the need for incisions or radiation.
Which hospital in North Florida is using this technology?
Ascension St. Vincent’s Riverside in Jacksonville, Florida, is the first hospital in North Florida to implement the Edison Histotripsy System.
What types of tumors can be treated with this system?
The Edison Histotripsy System has received FDA marketing authorization for the non-invasive destruction of liver tumors, including those deemed unresectable. However, it is important to note that the FDA has not evaluated the Edison System for the treatment of any disease, including cancer, or assessed specific cancer outcomes such as local tumor progression, 5-year survival, or overall survival. The system should only be used by physicians who have completed training provided by HistoSonics, guided by the clinical judgment of an appropriately trained physician.
Is this treatment covered by insurance?
Yes, major insurance providers, including Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan and Elevance Health, have expanded coverage for the Edison Histotripsy System, making it accessible to a broader patient population.
Key Features of the Edison Histotripsy System
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Non-Invasive Treatment | Utilizes focused ultrasound to destroy tumor tissue without incisions or radiation. |
| FDA Authorization | Approved for the non-invasive destruction of liver tumors, including unresectable ones. |
| Insurance Coverage | Covered by major insurance providers, including Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan and Elevance Health. |
| Patient Benefits | Offers a less invasive treatment option with potentially quicker recovery times compared to traditional methods. |
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Author: STAFF HERE JACKSONVILLE WRITER
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