Effects of parameter errors in the simulation of transcranial focused ultrasound.

Authors: Vaughan TE, Hynynen K

Previous numerical simulation work has supported experiments showing that a sharply focused transcranial ultrasound field can be generated for noninvasive therapy and surgery in the brain. The predicted pressure gain and optimal sonicating frequency could be affected by uncertainty in the simulation parameters. We estimate the effects of uncertainty in the speed of sound in the skull and brain, and in CT data that specifies the contour of the skull. The results of our simulations indicate that each of these errors may change the predicted pressure gain by up to a few percent, but the predicted optimal frequency is not significantly affected.

Introduction

Purpose Transcranial ultrasound stimulation

Study Objective Assess how errors in input parameters influence the accuracy and outcomes of simulations for transcranial focused ultrasound.

Targeted brain region(s) Brain

Outcomes and Safety

Summary of Outcomes Numerical simulations showed that CT scan resolution and bone property correlations significantly affect the accuracy of transcranial FUS focal reconstruction.

Safety-related matter No biological safety data reported (numerical study).

Brain Region

Ultrasound Parameters

Ultrasound instrument 64-element phased array transducer

FUS Frequency 0.66 MHz

FUS Mode continuous

We are open to feedback. If you see a mistake or have a suggestion, please contact us.