What is Focused Ultrasound?
Focused Ultrasound (FUS) is an advanced, incisionless treatment option for people with Essential Tremor (ET) and Parkinson's disease who have ongoing symptoms despite medical treatment. This innovative procedure uses high-frequency sound waves, precisely guided by MRI imaging, to target and treat the Ventral Intermediate Nucleus (Vim) of the thalamus to control tremors. The sound waves are directed with pinpoint accuracy to create a small lesion in the brain, significantly reducing tremors without the need for incisions or implants.
Is Focused Ultrasound Right for You?
Deciding whether Focused Ultrasound is a suitable option requires a consultation with a physician. Your symptoms and past treatments will be reviewed.If you have metallic implants, they must be MRI-compatible. Your physician will guide you through the steps and assess whether this advanced treatment is right for you.
What to Expect
Evaluation Before Treatment:
- The treatment team will review your medical history and confirm MRI compatibility if you have any implants. You will undergo a CT scan to measure your skull density.
Day of Treatment
- Your hair will be shaved. After giving local anesthetic, a head frame will be fitted. You will undergo MRI scanning, and you will stay awake and communicate with the treatment team throughout the procedure, which typically lasts between 1.5 to 2.5 hours. Sound waves will be focused on a targeted area of your brain to reduce tremors, with MRI imaging guiding the treatment. After the procedure, the head frame will be removed. You will be monitored briefly in a recovery room before being discharged, usually the same day.
After Treatment:
- Tremor is typically immediately reduced after the procedure. Many patients experience temporary imbalance for 2 to 3 weeks. Most patients can return to normal activities within a few days.
Why Choose Focused Ultrasound?
Focused Ultrasound offers an effective, minimally invasive solution for people with Essential Tremor, offering lasting relief with low risk. If you or someone you know has tremors that have not responded well to medication, this treatment may provide a life-changing option.
UT Health San Antonio is proud to be the first hospital in San Antonio to offer Focused Ultrasound (FUS) as part of our comprehensive neurosurgical and specialized movement disorders care. If you are interested in learning more about how FUS can improve your quality of life or would like to see if you are a candidate, we encourage you to complete our questionnaire. A member of our team will reach out to provide more information.
For further inquiries or to schedule a consultation, please contact us directly at 210-450-1FUS (1387) or focusedultrasound@uthscsa.edu.