MRI-guided focused ultrasound (MRgFUS)
MRI-guided focused ultrasound (MRgFUS) is an incisionless medical procedure used for treating neurological disorders.
The primary aim of MRgFUS at The Florey is to modify deep brain networks to treat neurological disorders and related health conditions. Example conditions that may be treated with MRgFUS include:
- essential tremor and other movement disorders
- mental health
- epilepsy
- neuropathic pain.
How it works
The incision-free procedure precisely delivers focused ultrasound energy (heat) to a small target region deep in the brain. The procedure takes place inside an MRI scanner. MRI is used to identify the target brain region and monitor temperature during the procedure.
MRgFUS is primarily used in patients with essential tremor. Those who have undergone the procedure often have immediate relief or significant improvement of symptoms following a single treatment session.
Research application
The MRgFUS capability at The Florey is the only system in Australia located within a medical research institute.
The Florey has long-held expertise in advanced neuroimaging and, with the addition of MRgFUS, our scientists will continue to develop techniques for mapping the brain and improving treatments for debilitating neurological conditions.
Though MRgFUS is used clinically for treating essential tremor, more research is needed to expand the use of this technology for the treatment of other disorders.
The MRI-guided focused ultrasound (MRgFUS) platform at The Florey is co-funded by the National Imaging Facility, with other funding coming from the Victorian Higher Education State Investment Fund, The Florey and the University of Melbourne. It is operated by Florey imaging experts working alongside medical staff from Austin Health.
Contact
Chris Kokkinos
Lead Research Radiographer
E [email protected]