The NanoKnife Tumor Treatment System is a novel, non-thermal, minimally invasive tumor ablation technology, also known as Irreversible Electroporation (IRE). NanoKnife ablation works by delivering steep pulsed direct current between electrodes to create nanoscale irreversible pores in cell membranes. These high-voltage pulses induce apoptosis in tumor cells without damaging surrounding connective tissue, elastic fibers, or collagen. The resulting apoptotic cell debris is then cleared by phagocytes.

NanoKnife ablation induces targeted tumor cell apoptosis while preserving nearby critical structures such as nerves, blood vessels, and bile ducts. As the procedure does not rely on high temperatures to destroy tumor cells, it avoids the “heat sink effect” commonly associated with thermal ablation techniques.

In October 2011, the U.S. FDA officially approved the NanoKnife System for clinical use, followed by EU approval in December 2012. In China, it was approved for clinical application in June 2015. Notably, in August 2014, Professor Xu Kecheng of our hospital served as editor-in-chief of *New Tumor Ablation Technology: Irreversible Electroporation*, the first published book in China dedicated to NanoKnife ablation therapy.

Publication Information

* Chief Editor: Xu Zhicheng

* Associate Chief Editor: Niu Lizhi

* *New Technique of Cancer Ablation: Irreversible Electroporation*

* Shanghai Scientific and Technical Literature Publishing House

Indications for NanoKnife Ablation Therapy

NanoKnife ablation therapy can be applied to solid tumors of the pancreas, liver, kidneys, lungs, and other organs. It offers distinct advantages for tumors located near critical structures such as the pancreas, hepatic hilum, gallbladder, bile ducts, and ureters, where preserving surrounding tissue integrity is crucial.

Advantages of NanoKnife Ablation

* Minimizes damage to critical structures such as major blood vessels, bile ducts, and nerves

* Short ablation time, allowing for repeated or segmented ablation within the target area

* Non-thermal process avoids the "heat sink effect" commonly seen in thermal ablation

* Precise and thorough treatment with clearly defined ablation boundaries

* Apoptotic tissue is naturally cleared through phagocytosis, promoting regeneration and repair of normal tissue with minimal inflammatory response

* Real-time monitoring under ultrasound or CT guidance ensures accuracy and safety

* Suitable for complex cases, including tumors located near vital structures such as blood vessels, bile ducts, pancreatic ducts, the hepatic portal vein, as well as prostate tumors or tumors adjacent to the spine