A groundbreaking device that utilizes pulsed sound energy to target and destroy tumor cells has emerged as a potential game-changer in cancer therapy, according to doctors in Orange County. With only eight of these devices in existence worldwide, Providence Mission Hospital in Mission Viejo houses one of them, offering hope to patients battling the disease.

One such patient is Michael Farris, a 50-year-old father of three, who was unexpectedly diagnosed with stage 4 cancer after a routine exam following his birthday celebration. Despite his active lifestyle and lack of family history with cancer, Farris received the devastating news that the disease had aggressively metastasized to his liver, with tumors encompassing over 90% of the organ.

Dr. Ahmad Abbass, the director of hepatobiliary surgery at Providence Mission Hospital, revealed that they are increasingly observing metastatic cancer in younger patients, like Farris, between the ages of 30 to 40. This trend is particularly concerning given that screening protocols typically begin at the age of 45.

Due to the extensive nature of Farris' tumors, surgery was deemed unfeasible. While chemotherapy proved effective in preventing the development of new tumors, hope manifested in the form of a cutting-edge device known as the HistoSonics Edison system. Farris was selected as a candidate for this innovative technology, which employs a similar approach to lithotripsy, pulverizing the tumor cells through mechanical force.

Dr. Kevin Burns, Chief of Interventional Radiology at Providence Mission Hospital, explained that the HistoSonics Edison system disrupts and liquefies the tumor cells, paving the way for potential regression and shrinkage. As Farris underwent his groundbreaking procedure, he became one of the first patients to receive treatment for one of his tumors.

With Providence Mission Hospital's Leonard Cancer Institute being home to one of only eight devices worldwide, doctors are hopeful that this novel technology will not only diminish Farris' treated tumor but also prove effective in addressing his numerous other tumors. This approach is considered the "holy grail" of cancer therapy, allowing the body to learn how to eliminate tumors even beyond those directly targeted.

While Farris acknowledges that his battle against cancer is an uphill journey, he urges individuals to prioritize early screening for colon cancer. His personal hopes lie in maximizing his time with his sons and enjoying each day to the fullest, despite the looming uncertainty that cancer brings.

The emergence of this breakthrough device in Orange County offers a glimmer of hope in the fight against cancer. With experts hailing it as a potential game-changer, patients like Michael Farris can dare to dream of a brighter future in which innovative technologies pave the way to enhanced cancer therapy and improved outcomes.

Note: The article is written based on the information provided, and no additional research has been conducted.