Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about Hapchot and percutaneous tumor ablation technology. For additional information, see our Regulatory Compliance page.
Technology & How It Works
What types of tumor ablation does Hapchot support?
Hapchot supports both thermal ablation techniques — including radiofrequency ablation (RFA) and microwave ablation (MWA) — and non-thermal techniques such as irreversible electroporation (IRE). The current version models IRE and provides theoretical thermal ablation zones; the next version will add full predictive thermal modeling.
What is irreversible electroporation (IRE)?
Irreversible electroporation (IRE) is a non-thermal tumor ablation technique that uses short, high-voltage electrical pulses to permanently open cell membranes, causing cell death. Unlike thermal ablation (RFA, MWA), IRE preserves critical structures like blood vessels, nerves, and bile ducts, making it safer for tumors near vital anatomy.
How does Hapchot help with tumor ablation procedures?
Hapchot assists interventional radiologists by generating a patient-specific simulation of the ablation zone — before treatment is triggered. This predictive dosimetry approach allows the radiologist to optimize needle placement, confirm that tumor coverage exceeds the 100% safety threshold, and adjust their approach before initiating the ablation. The result is greater procedural confidence and a reduced risk of local recurrence.
What makes Hapchot different from other ablation planning software?
Hapchot introduces predictive dosimetry to interventional radiology — a capability that does not currently exist in the ecosystem. Rather than showing geometric needle positioning alone, Hapchot simulates the actual ablation zone based on patient-specific tissue properties, giving the radiologist a confirmed picture of tumor coverage before treatment begins. No other tool in the current landscape provides this level of pre-treatment verification.
What imaging modalities and technical requirements does Hapchot need?
Hapchot works with standard medical imaging modalities including CT and MRI scans. Specific technical requirements for hardware, software compatibility, and imaging protocols will be provided to partner institutions during the collaboration setup phase.
Regulatory & Approval
Is Hapchot FDA approved or CE marked?
No, Hapchot is currently a research prototype and is not yet FDA approved or CE marked. It is available exclusively for research collaborations and clinical validation studies with partner institutions like Hôpital Avicenne and CHU Poitiers.
What is the current regulatory status of Hapchot?
Hapchot is in the research and development phase. It is not approved for clinical use and should not be used for patient care decisions. The development follows medical device regulations with plans for future FDA and CE mark applications as the technology matures and validation studies are completed.
Clinical Application
Who can use Hapchot?
Hapchot is designed for interventional radiologists performing percutaneous tumor ablations. Currently, it is available exclusively for research collaborations with qualified partner institutions. Once clinically approved, it will be available to trained interventional radiologists in interventional radiology departments.
What are the indications for using Hapchot?
Hapchot is intended for use in percutaneous tumor ablations in interventional radiology — primarily hepatic, renal, and pulmonary tumors that are inoperable with standard-of-care surgical approaches. It is currently the subject of research and development and has not been approved for clinical use.
Research & Evidence
What research supports Hapchot?
Hapchot is developed through a research collaboration with INRIA (French Institute for Research in Digital Science and Technology), CNRS (National Centre for Scientific Research), and Hôpital Avicenne (APHP). The technology is based on peer-reviewed research in medical imaging, computational modeling, and machine learning for interventional radiology.
Which hospitals and institutions are involved with Hapchot?
Hapchot is developed in partnership with leading French research and medical institutions including INRIA, CNRS, Hôpital Avicenne (APHP), and CHU Poitiers. These collaborations provide clinical expertise, validation data, and research support for developing the AI-powered ablation planning technology.
Are there published studies on Hapchot's effectiveness?
Yes. The landmark study is: Sutter O., et al., "Towards Perioperative, Numerically-Assisted Irreversible Electroporation for Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Clinical Outcomes Informed by Numerical Simulations," European Radiology, 2025 (DOI: 10.1007/s00330-025-12223-7). This retrospective study on 31 patients validates the clinical relevance of numerically-assisted ablation planning. Additional peer-reviewed publications from the INRIA, CNRS, and APHP research teams are listed on our research page.
Access & Partnership
How can hospitals or research institutions partner with Hapchot?
Hospitals and research institutions interested in collaborating on Hapchot development or participating in validation studies can contact Hapchot through the website contact form. We welcome partnerships with interventional radiology, oncology and urology departments, oncology centers, and medical research institutions interested in advancing tumor ablation technology.
Is Hapchot available for research collaborations?
Yes, Hapchot is available for research collaborations with qualified medical institutions and research organizations. Collaborative opportunities include validation studies, clinical trials, and technology development partnerships. Contact Hapchot to discuss potential research collaboration opportunities.
What is the timeline for availability and commercial launch?
Hapchot is currently in the R&D phase with validation studies ongoing. The timeline for regulatory approval (FDA/CE mark) and commercial launch depends on successful completion of clinical trials and regulatory review processes.
Medical Disclaimer
Hapchot is a research prototype and is not FDA-approved or CE-marked for clinical use. The information provided on this website is for educational and research purposes only and should not be used to make medical decisions. Always consult with qualified healthcare professionals for medical advice.
Have More Questions?
If you have additional questions or are interested in research collaborations, please get in touch.
Contact Us