Focused ultrasound (FUS) is a treatment for essential tremor (tremors with an unknown cause), which is said to suffer one in 10 to 20 people aged 65 years or older. Instead of craniotomy, MRI images are used to pinpoint the location in the center part of brain causing the tremor to be treated, and focused ultrasound is used to heat-coagulate the lesion.
INSIGHTEC ExAblate 4000
Features of FUS
This treatment is different from conventional surgical treatment, it is possible to treat by ultrasound without using scalpel, and there is no need to worry about radiation exposure. Furthermore, we can pay close attention to patient’s condition during the treatment; therefore, we can suspend the treatment immediately in case we find something abnormal such as side effects. Patients can be expected to return to work quickly because treatment and hospitalization are shorter with less burden on the body.
Result of FUS treatment for essential tremor
*FUS is for people who have been diagnosed with essential tremor and have lower efficacy of medication. *Effects of treatment vary in individuals. *Even if you are diagnosed as essential tremor, treatment may not be applicable if the doctor deems that it is inappropriate due to the nature and shape of the skull, medical history, and other factors. *For information regarding the risks and possible side effects of this treatment, please contact us.
Eligible patients for treatment
Difficulty holding chopsticks or cups due to hand tremor
Difficulty operating a smartphone because of hand tremor
Difficulty writing because of hand tremor
Patients diagnosed with essential tremor who have insufficient response to medication
Schedule (Example)
September 3
Visit for examinations (FUS eligibility assessment: CT scan, MRI scan, and required pre‑admission tests)
September 9
Explanation of results (assessment of eligibility for FUS treatment)
