To develop a complementary therapeutic that can address these limitations, we have developed a simple formulation combining ethanol and an inert polymer, ethyl cellulose to induce necrosis through protein denaturation and cytoplasmic dehydration. Ethyl cellulose is a freely flowing fluid in its soluble form; however, it undergoes a phase change into a biodegradable polymer gel in aqueous media encapsulating the solvent within a hydrophobic shell localizing the volume of destruction to the region where the injection is made. It has the added benefit of enhanced control in selecting needle depth and location(s) within the cervix. This therapeutic has an excellent strong safety profile with no deviations from normal vital signs, limited side effects, and no adverse events within 24 h of ablation.

ECE is an injectable gel therapeutic that allows for ablation of a local region of tissue where pre-cancer or early cancer is found.  It can localize the zone of destruction (A) by controlling the needle depth and location(s) within the cervix resulting in a well-defined zone of necrosis (B). The formulation can be modified for different volumes of ablation.