Dr. Nicole Look Hong’s groundbreaking work with MOLLI technology is transforming the way tumors are located and treated
Dr. Nicole Look Hong, a surgical oncologist and associate scientist at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, is at the forefront of revolutionizing breast cancer care with the development of MOLLI—a wire-free, radiation-free technology that allows surgeons to precisely locate breast cancer lesions. This breakthrough system, which utilizes a tiny magnetic marker inserted into the tumor, has greatly improved the accuracy of tumor removal and enhanced the quality of breast cancer surgery. During surgery, a small wand is used to locate the marker’s exact position and depth, enabling more precise incisions. This approach not only improves patient outcomes by reducing the need for invasive procedures but also ensures more accurate removal of cancerous tissue.
In March, Dr. Look Hong was appointed to the Marion C. Soloway Chair in Breast Cancer Surgery at Sunnybrook. Established in 2019, the Chair supports advancements in breast cancer care. Dr. Look Hong, who is also an associate professor at the University of Toronto, states,
“I’m eager to find innovative ways to improve diagnosis and treatment, leading to better outcomes and a more collaborative health system.”
The development of MOLLI was made possible by Sunnybrook’s collaborative environment and world-leading expertise. Dr. Look Hong explains, “When MOLLI was created, Dr. Ravi, the engineers, and I worked at Sunnybrook, meeting regularly and using the hospital’s lab for design and testing.” Dr. Look Hong has expressed her commitment to advancing breast cancer surgery, saying, “Through this Chair, I look forward to discovering innovative approaches to improve the diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer, ultimately leading to better patient outcomes and a more effective, collaborative health system.”
With access to resources like grants and clinical trials, Sunnybrook’s focus on meaningful collaboration turned MOLLI from an idea into reality. This unique approach led to the creation of MOLLI Surgical, a spin-off from the Sunnybrook Research Institute. The device is now used in hospitals across North and Central America and the Caribbean, improving many lives.
This achievement is a testament to Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre’s reputation as a world-renowned leader in research, education, and patient care, built through the unwavering partnership, trust, and support of our visionary community of partners, volunteers, and donors.
The Marion C. Soloway Chair in Breast Cancer Surgery honors Marion Soloway, who passed away in February 2025, and was made possible by the generous contributions of Gerald and Marion Soloway, longtime advocates of breast cancer care and research at Sunnybrook.
Discover the latest advancements in cancer care at Sunnybrook’s Odette Cancer Program.
