Hackensack Meridian launches AI-powered brain cancer treatment

Hackensack Meridian Health and medical tech company Neosoma Inc. are teaming up on artificial intelligence-powered brain cancer treatment and research, the health care provider announced Feb. 24. 

The collaboration with the Massachusetts-based company will include clinical data sharing, research and strategic investment from Hackensack Meridian to support Neosoma’s method of imaging, tracking and collecting data on numerous types of brain tumors, including glioblastomas. 

In September 2022, Neosoma received U.S. Food and Drug Administration 510(k) clearance for its first AI-based neuro-oncology software device, Neosoma HGG (High-Grade Glioma). The technology produces more accurate brain tumor analysis on MRIs, guiding physicians’ treatment decisions. 

According to Hackensack Meridian, although the MRI is the best tool to evaluate tumors, “even the most experienced physicians encounter considerable challenges in determining the extent and characteristics of the cancer, which can have a direct impact on clinical care.” 

Benefits of the advanced Neosoma technology include helping physicians to better plan procedures, assess post-procedural results, guide chemo and immunotherapy treatments, and more. 

Physicians at Hackensack Meridian JFK University Medical Center in Edison will be the first in the network to use the software in clinical practice and will provide feedback for future versions.  

“We are committed to investing in research and innovative therapies to live our mission to transform health care and give our patients the best possible outcomes,” said Hackensack Meridian CEO Robert Garrett said in a statement. “Partnering with Neosoma Inc. is a great way to continue to develop potential game changing therapies to treat these challenging cancers.” 

The collaboration with Neosoma was formed from the Bear’s Den, an initiative launched in 2017 and made up of a panel of Hackensack Meridian experts that aims to support “promising companies” and accelerate innovation, according to the health care provider. 

Dr. Joseph Landolfi, a neuro-oncologist and the chief medical officer at JFK University Medical Center, added, “Neosoma helps to avoid interruptions in care, unnecessary surgeries, and unnecessary changes in therapy. The entire team benefits from centralized information, more efficient communication, and treatment protocols tailored to each specific patient.” 

JFK University Medical Center recently unveiled its latest technology for lung care, as well: its new robotic Ion Bronchoscopy system. Along the same lines, U.K.-headquartered Optellum recently introduced its AI-powered lung cancer diagnosis tool to the Northeast U.S. by way of AtlantiCare in Egg Harbor Township.