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Future potential of MRI-guided focused ultrasound brain surgery.

Authors: Colen RR, Jolesz FA

Magnetic resonance image-guided focused ultrasound surgery (MRgFUS) has surfaced as a viable noninvasive image-guided therapeutic method that integrates focused ultrasound (FUS), the therapeutic component, with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), the image guidance module, into a real-time therapy delivery system with closed-loop control of energy delivery. The main applications for MRgFUS of the brain are thermal ablations for brain tumors and functional neurosurgery, and nonthermal, nonablative uses for disruption of the blood brain barrier (BBB) or blood clot and hematoma dissolution by liquification. The disruption of the BBB by FUS can be used for targeted delivery of chemotherapy and other therapeutic agents. MRI is used preoperatively for target definition and treatment planning, intraoperatively for procedure monitoring and control, and postoperatively for validating treatment success. Although challenges still remain, this integrated noninvasive therapy delivery system is anticipated to change current treatment paradigms in neurosurgery and the clinical neurosciences.

Introduction

Purpose Other
Study Objective To assess the future potential of MRI-guided focused ultrasound in brain surgery.
Animal model / Human subject Not specified in the provided text.
Disease model Not applicable
MRI or image guidance method MRI-guided
Targeted brain region(s) Not Specified
Cargo name and characteristics None reported in the provided text.
Route of administration Not specified in the provided text.

Outcomes and Safety

Summary of Outcomes MRI-guided focused ultrasound enables noninvasive, targeted modulation or ablation of brain tissue, producing therapeutic effects such as symptom improvement in neurological disorders and transient blood–brain barrier opening to facilitate drug delivery.
Duration of biological effect Not reported
Safety-related matter No safety concerns or adverse effects are mentioned in the provided text.

Brain Region

Ultrasound Parameters

Ultrasound instrument Not specified in provided text
FUS Frequency Not specified in provided text
FUS Intensity Not reported
FUS Pressure Not reported
FUS Mode unknown
Pulse duration Not reported
Duration of a single FUS session Not reported in the provided text
Focal Characteristics Not reported
Treatment frequency Not specified

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