Fox Cities News

ThedaCare has introduced a new cancer treatment option, becoming the first healthcare system in Wisconsin to offer this minimally invasive procedure for soft tissue cancers. The treatment, known as the Aliya Pulsed Electric Field (PEF) with the INUMI Flex Needle, involves using an electrified needle to deliver high voltage, high-frequency electrical pulses into tumors.

Dr. Harsha Poola, an Oncology and Hematology Specialist at ThedaCare, explained the procedure: “We use an image-guided technique to insert a needle into the target area and deliver the electrical pulse. The pulse destabilizes the target by essentially poking holes into the cancerous cells. This tactic helps keep healthy tissue intact while helping to kill the targeted cancer cells.”

ThedaCare began performing these procedures in April 2025. The Aliya System is being used to treat patients with advanced soft tissue cancers such as pulmonary, prostate, urinary, and other types originating in muscles, fat, tendons, nerves, and blood vessels.

“This new option helps illustrate our continued efforts to evaluate and incorporate innovative technologies that help enhance the quality of medical care we provide,” Dr. Poola stated. “It is another tool we can use to support identified patients as they undergo treatment for soft tissue cancer.”

Dr. Scott Parrish from Fox Valley Pulmonary Medicine emphasized that incorporating new technologies aids in providing tailored treatment options for patients. “It is a concerted, ongoing effort to help provide individualized care our patients need and deserve,” he said.

Dr. Parrish hopes this technology will become standard care for certain advanced soft tissue cancer treatments. “A long-term goal is to make the Aliya System a regular part of our cancer treatment options,” he noted.

Preliminary studies suggest additional benefits of this treatment may include mobilizing the body’s immune system against cancer.

“The use of this new, minimally invasive procedure highlights ThedaCare’s dedication to being a leader in medical advancements,” Dr. Poola added.

For more information about ThedaCare Cancer Care services or potential use of the Aliya System for treating soft tissue cancers, individuals are encouraged to contact their care team or visit ThedaCare's website.