First in UAE: Abu Dhabi hospital treats liver tumours without surgery

Abu Dhabi: SEHA, a subsidiary of PureHealth, with support from the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi, has become the first healthcare provider in the UAE to offer histotripsy technology, an advanced non-invasive treatment for liver tumours at SEHA Tawam Hospital, histotripsy uses precisely focused ultrasound energy to destroy tumours without the need for surgery, radiotherapy or chemotherapy.

The technology reflects a significant step for advanced cancer care in Abu Dhabi and the emirate’s continued commitment to expanding access to advanced, patient-centred care.  

Developed by US medical device company Histosonics, histotripsy enables clinicians to target tumours with exceptional accuracy while preserving surrounding healthy tissue, resulting in minimal side effects, reduced risk and faster recovery. 

The technology is particularly effective for tumours located in hard-to-reach areas of the liver where conventional surgical options may carry higher risk. To date, 21 patients from the UAE and abroad have been successfully treated using histotripsy at SEHA Tawam Hospital, reinforcing Abu Dhabi’s position as a regional leader in advanced oncology care.

Saeed Jaber Mohd Al Kuwaiti, Group Chief Executive Officer at SEHA, said: “The introduction of histotripsy at SEHA Tawam Hospital marks a major milestone in our mission to deliver world-class, patient-centred care in the UAE. By offering this advanced treatment locally, we are reinforcing our commitment to setting new benchmarks in oncology care for the region.”

One recent patient, a 69-year-old, underwent a comprehensive diagnostic assessment and treatment planning by Dr Philip and his multidisciplinary team. 

Three large liver lesions were successfully treated using histotripsy without surgery, radiation or chemotherapy. 

Post-procedure CT scans confirmed complete tumour destruction, and the patient was discharged in good health.

Dr Khalid Saeed Balaraj, Chair of the Oncology Centre at SEHA Tawam Hospital, said: “We are proud to offer histotripsy technology to our patients. It represents a significant step forward in non-invasive cancer care and expands the treatment options available to patients with complex liver tumours.”

The introduction of histotripsy reflects Abu Dhabi’s ongoing commitment to advancing healthcare standards through innovation and the adoption of advanced medical technologies.

SEHA Tawam Hospital, long recognised as a pioneer in oncology services, continues to strengthen its capabilities through the adoption of advanced medical technologies that place patients at the centre of care.

Patients diagnosed with liver tumours who wish to explore histotripsy treatment can contact SEHA Tawam Hospital’s Oncology Centre on 80050 for more information or to schedule a consultation.