03 March 2026

Since unveiling its state-of-the-art MRI-guided Cryoablation system, Sydney's Liverpool Hospital has led a promising advancement in Australian cancer treatment.

The incorporation of real-time MRI imaging from an interventional radiologist, has provided clinicians with a more detailed live-view, allowing them to monitor probes and target tumours in the spine and other soft tissues with greater accuracy and safety.

As reported by Nine News, patient Josephina Cordina who suffered serious pain from a nine-millimetre tumour on her spine, reported an immediate life changing improvement within a day of undergoing the advanced procedure.

"[Before] Laying down and sitting down was the worst pain, even to sleep I had to take pain killers" Josephine said.

"The next day I had no pain, it was all gone and I'm back to normal, so it was a big relief"

Josephine was previously offered traditional open surgery but declined.

"They wanted to dig it out and then they'd have to put screws there to support the bone."

A less invasive alternative to traditional open surgery, Cryoablation destroys cancer-cells by inserting a precise, gas-powered needle (cryoprobe) directly into the tumour and freezing it with a controlled ice ball .

Previously at Liverpool Hospital, Cryoablation has been performed in conjunction with ultrasound and CT, however the incorporation of first-of-its-kind MRI has provided their team with greater control, expanding existing capabilities.

"Some tumours are invisible on ultrasound and CT but clearly visible on MRI" according to the  Spectrum Interventional Radiology group, who practice Cryoablation at Liverpool Hospital.

"For these lesions, MRI guidance is the only way to accurately place the cryoprobe into the target."

"MRI also allows needle placement along any angle, provides imaging in any plane and uses no radiation - making it particularly suitable for younger patients and difficult locations."

Depending on the size of the target, multiple cryoprobes may be administered to cover the lesions entirety, placing additional importance on more accurate, detailed live imaging.

With other institutions such as Monash Health also investing in Cryoablation, Liverpool's innovative MRI-guided system may shape future applications as the procedure sees greater demand and becomes increasingly accessible.