A cutting-edge machine donated by Hong Kong tycoon Li Ka-shing, which can destroy cancerous cells with ultrasound waves, has been included in a government list of approved medical devices, paving the way for wider use of the technology in public hospitals.
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The Hospital Authority said in a response to the Post that it would also consider other factors, such as quality and safety standards, before using the machines in public health facilities.
The histotripsy medical device, given to the city’s two medical schools by Li last year, was approved by health authorities on September 11 for listing under the voluntary Medical Device Administration Control System (MDACS).
A search of the list, available on the Department of Health website, showed the HistoSonics Histotripsy System had been included and the listing would expire on September 10, 2030.
The department said the device was intended to be used for “partial or complete destruction of unresectable liver tumours”.
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“The Department of Health has assessed and confirmed that the medical device concerned has met the safety, quality and performance requirements for the intended use as indicated by the manufacturer,” a spokesman said.