I have a particular interest and specialized training in surgery for movement disorders, and I am the director of functional neurosurgery at HCA HealthONE Swedish.
What is MRI-guided focused ultrasound?
MRI-guided focused ultrasound is an exciting technology for treating essential tremor without the need for an incision or anesthesia.
The procedure uses high-frequency sound waves to create a tiny lesion in the brain. Symptom relief is immediate, and the procedure is performed as an outpatient, meaning that there is no overnight hospital stay.
What conditions can focused ultrasound treat?
Focused ultrasound is the most common type of thalamotomy in the United States for treating patients with essential tremor. Focused ultrasound can also be used for treating Parkinson’s disease in one of several different ways, though there are insurance coverage challenges presently. It is an alternative to deep brain stimulation (DBS).
Where can I learn more?
If you are thinking about focused ultrasound or are planning to have the procedure with me, you can find a copy of my focused ultrasound patient guide/instructions here. You can also read the patient guides I provide to patients meeting me in consultation for essential tremor and Parkinson’s disease.
Focused ultrasound for tremor: examples
Should I meet with you?
If you live near Denver and have essential tremor or Parkinson’s Disease, please consider meeting me in consultation to learn about your treatment options.