Irreversible Electroporation ("NanoKnife" Technology) Irreversible electroporation (NanoKnife technology) is a targeted method for tumor destruction using short high-voltage electrical pulses.
The electrical field creates microscopic pores (nanopores) in the membrane of the cancer cell that can no longer close. As a result, the cell loses its internal equilibrium and triggers a natural decay process — apoptosis. The destroyed cancer cells are subsequently gently and naturally eliminated from the body by the immune and lymphatic systems.
How the Tumor Destruction Process Works:
Precise Navigation. Under continuous imaging control (ultrasound or CT), the physician inserts ultra-thin needle electrodes into the tumor area.
Electrical Pulses. Series of ultra-short high-voltage current pulses are delivered through the electrodes.
Formation of Micropores. Driven by the current, permanent microscopic pores form in the cancer cell membranes. This process is called irreversible electroporation.
Natural Decay. Unable to restore membrane integrity, the cancer cell initiates its natural death mechanism — apoptosis.
Replacement with Healthy Tissue. The destroyed cells are gently and naturally cleared by the body's immune system, and over time, regeneration occurs at the site.
Key Feature of the Technology: The NanoKnife acts exclusively on cell membranes. It preserves the connective tissue framework of the organ, major blood vessels, nerve fibers, and bile or urinary ducts, ensuring their rapid adaptation following the procedure.
In Which Conditions is NanoKnife Applied?
Pancreatic diseases (including complex cases adjacent to critical blood vessels);
Liver neoplasms (both primary tumors and isolated metastatic foci);
Prostate diseases (preserves the urethral canal and nerves essential for normal function);
Kidney and pelvic tumors.
Key Advantages for the Patient:
Minimal Intervention. The procedure is performed through tiny skin punctures without requiring major incisions.
Preservation of Anatomy. The unique physical action preserves the integrity of the vascular and neural network surrounding the organ.
Rapid Recovery. Patients tolerate the procedure well and can often return to their normal lifestyle within a few days.
High Precision. Every stage of the procedure is guided by advanced diagnostic imaging equipment, preventing impact on healthy regions of the organ.
How is the Procedure Performed?
Preparation. The procedure is performed under general anesthesia. Special muscle relaxants are administered to ensure complete muscle relaxation during pulse delivery.
Execution. The physician positions the electrodes around the tumor focus with millimeter precision.
Pulse Delivery. The active electrical pulse delivery phase takes only a few minutes. The entire procedure averages between 1 and 2 hours.
Observation. Following the procedure, the patient remains under medical monitoring in a comfortable inpatient ward where health metrics are tracked.
