Posted by Michael Wonder on 11 Jul 2016
FDA approves first MRI-guided focused ultrasound device to treat essential tremor
11 July 2016 - The U.S. FDA today approved the first focused ultrasound device to treat essential tremor in patients who have not responded to medication.
ExAblate Neuro uses magnetic resonance images taken during the procedure to deliver focused ultrasound to destroy brain tissue in a tiny area thought to be responsible for causing tremors.
“Patients with essential tremor who have not seen improvement with medication now have a new treatment option that could help them to avoid more invasive surgical treatments,” said Carlos Peña, Ph.D., M.S., director of the division of neurological and physical medicine devices in the FDA’s Center for Devices and Radiological Health. “As with other treatments for essential tremor, this new device is not a cure but could help patients enjoy a better quality of life.”
