Plasma Scalpel

A scalpel that emits a small jet of supercharged plasma “soup” has been demonstrated to kill cancer cells that may be left behind after surgery. While the cold plasma technique has been used in the past to treat infections, sterilize wounds and cauterize tissue, this is the first time is has been used to destroy tumors while leaving healthy tissue intact.

The pen-sized device converts helium into positive ions and electrons. The electrons, in turn, convert the oxygen and nitrogen in room air into a variety of reactive compounds including superoxide, nitric oxide and oxygen atoms. When sprayed on a tumor site for a few minutes, the plasma interrupts the metabolic processes of the cancer cells to inhibit reproduction.

Based on more than a decade of laboratory work, the researchers have identified the chemicals generated, determined how far they penetrate the tissues, and developed a better understanding of the mechanisms by which they disrupt cancer cells. In October, they began a clinical trial of 20 patients, all of whom have late-stage, solid cancers such as pancreatic, ovarian or breast cancer. The goal is to fine-tune the optimum dosages to kill the cancer without causing damage to healthy cells.