Brain metastases treatment with MRI-guided focused ultrasound

The MRI-controlled high-dose focused ultrasound method ensures high accuracy of the effect on brain metastases. This new technology focuses ultrasonic energy rays precisely on a target deep in the brain without damaging the surrounding normal tissues. This procedure is carried out without damage to the skull bones and performs under general anesthesia. First, by visualization, the «target» (a particular area of the brain less than 1 mm in diameter) is selected for exposure to ultrasound. Next, ultrasonic waves pass through the skin into the skull and raise the temperature of cancer tissues in a given area to 60-90 degrees within a few seconds. As a result, that results in coagulation and death of cancer cells. The following treatment zone is then selected and treated similarly. Each ultrasound treatment session is monitored using MRI thermometry. Real-time visual control and high exposure accuracy eliminate damage to other brain areas and minimize side effects. If necessary, the process can be repeated.