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FDA Approves MR-Focused Ultrasound for Essential Tremor for 2nd Side of the Body

Essential tremor is a neurological condition that affects over 10 million people in the U.S. It is a type of tremor that is caused by the lack of control over muscle movements. It can occur on one side of the body or both and is often recurrent. There is currently no cure for essential tremor, but there are treatments available that can help manage the condition.

Essential tremor is a debilitating condition that can significantly reduce quality of life. It affects activities of daily living, such as cooking, eating, bathing, and climbing stairs. However, MR-focused ultrasound can provide effective relief from essential tremor. It is newly approved by the FDA for use in patients with essential tremor who have had the procedure on one side and want to have it on the second side of the body affected by the condition.

Read on to learn more about Insightec essential tremor MRA and how it may benefit those living with the condition.

What Is MR-Focused Ultrasound?

MR-focused ultrasound is a noninvasive therapy that uses high-frequency sound waves to target specific areas of the brain. The procedure is done through an MRI that directs the waves to the targeted area. The sound waves produce heat, which causes the brain to shift and relax. This can instantly improve the symptoms of essential tremor.

The procedure requires no incision or surgery and is typically completed in just a few minutes.

FDA Approval

A study sponsored by Insightec was conducted by working with over 50 patients with this condition. The study revealed that MR-focused ultrasound was effective in reducing the number and severity of tremors on the second side of the body. The results showed significant improvement, and the positive results were sustained for six months or longer. Consequently, the FDA recently approved the use of MR-focused ultrasound for treating essential tremor for patients with bilateral essential tremor.

Suitability of MR-focused Ultrasound for Essential Tremor

Although MR-focused ultrasound is an effective and noninvasive treatment, the therapy may not be suitable for all patients. Patients who have managed essential tremor with other treatments, such as medication or surgery, and haven’t had any side effects may not be suitable candidates for the therapy. Contact us at 832-981-7874 or tremors@hphtx.org to learn whether you qualify.

Advantages of MR-focused Ultrasound

With the approval of the FDA, MR-focused ultrasound may offer a new and viable treatment for the second side of the body. The therapy is relatively easy to perform and has minimal side effects. The procedure is noninvasive and doesn’t require incisions or surgery. The treatment can also be done on an outpatient basis. Finally, MR-focused ultrasound may be suitable for patients who haven’t been able to manage ET with other treatments.

Medical professionals working with a patient in an MRI suite undergoing MR-focused treatment for essential tremor.

Filename: MR-focused-treatment

Alt Text: Medical professionals working with a patient in an MRI suite undergoing MR-focused treatment for essential tremor.

With recent FDA approval, Houston Physicians’ Hospital has been providing people suffering with essential tremor relief through MR-focused ultrasound from Insightec. If you suffer from this condition on both sides of your body, you can receive treatment on one side, then after nine months, receive treatment on the other side of your body. If you suffer from this debilitating condition, call us at 832-981-7874 or email tremors@hphtx.org to learn more.

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