MRI-guided focused ultrasound (MRgFUS) is a common procedure for Essential Tremor and more recently has been used for Parkinson’s Tremor.

There are two types, thallidomity and pallidomity, and they treat different areas of the brain. A laser causes a permanent lesion in the brain in the target area that e.g. fixes tremor and does not affect speech.

Pros: Incision-less for those with co-morbidities that make them not good surgical candidates (e.g. for DBS).

Cons: Permanent, hard to re-treat the same area if the lesion is not large enough (but can have re-treatment). Scarring around the original lesion. The second side may be harder to treat.

Post MRgFUS, you can see immediate results. As the condition progresses you will still be able to take levodopa and adjunct therapies.

Being a fairly new procedure, long term data is lacking but is showing about 70% improvement in tremor over 5 years.

More information:

FUS on the Shake It Up site 

Focused Ultrasound Foundation

FUS on Parkinson’s Foundation Blog

Share

Other articles

  • CARE TEAM | What is the WHODAS and why is it helpful?

    The World Health Organization Disability Assessment Schedule (WHODAS) is a valuable tool for people with Parkinson's because it provides a standardised way to measure health and disability across different cultures and settings. It helps assess the impact of Parkinson's on various aspects of daily life and can strengthen your NDIS application.

  • NDIS | NDIS Supports

    We've created a handy NDIS Ins & Outs List to help you easily compare categories. Following the legislation changes announced on October 3, 2024, you can now only spend NDIS funding on approved supports. This new definition provides greater clarity on what NDIS funds can and cannot be used for, making it easier for participants and their families to make informed choices.

  • EMPLOYMENT & LEGAL | Advanced Care Planning in Australia

    What is Advanced Care Planning? Advanced Care Planning (ACP) is the process of planning for your future healthcare. It involves thinking about, discussing, and documenting your values, beliefs, and preferences for medical treatment in case you become unable to communicate your wishes. This ensures that your loved ones and care team know what matters most [...]