A Cork research team has developed a new biopsy technology that aims to reduce waiting times for breast cancer biopsy results.
Clisteprobe’s new diagnosis method uses an advanced biopsy device to improve accuracy of disease detection, integrating sensors that providing real-time diagnostic data to identify benign and cancerous tissue during biopsy sampling.
The current biopsy method requires patients to wait days or weeks for results, which often turn out to be benign. Clisteprobe’s technology will separate benign and malignant cases at the time of biopsy, allowing patients to start treatment immediately while also reducing the number of benign samples sent for histopathology, reducing wait times for results.
“Even today, women still endure the excruciating 10+ day wait for biopsy results, a wait filled with anxiety and uncertainty. This reality drove me to get involved with Clisteprobe,” said chief executive Dr Justina Ugwah.
“To me, this isn’t just about developing technology; it’s about transforming lives. Every day of waiting for results is a day of emotional turmoil for patients and their loved ones. By providing rapid, accurate diagnostic results, we’re not just saving time – we’re offering peace of mind, enabling faster treatment decisions, and ultimately, saving lives.”
More than 3,400 women and approximately 30 men are diagnosed with breast cancer every year in Ireland.
The technology was developed by a team made up of researchers from University College Cork (UCC), the Tyndall National Institute and Cork University Hospital and supported by Health Innovation Hub Ireland (HIHI), which facilitated the evaluation phase of the project. Clisteprobe was also awarded €753,000 by EI to develop its technology.
Clisteprobe is also undertaking a pilot study as part of HIHI’s FemTech initiative, which supports the development of high potential new products, services and start-ups aiming to improve the health and wellbeing of women.
“Supporting innovations in women’s health is the key driver of our FemTech programme, we are delighted to support Clisteprobe, through clinical engagement, in the development of their novel biopsy device,” said Dr Tanya Mulcahy, Director HIHI Ireland. “Supporting the translation of academic research to product drives better outcomes for patients and in this case has the potential to impact the millions of people who undergo breast biopsy globally.”
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