Transcranial magnetic resonance imaging-guided focused ultrasound for neuropathic pain treatment

Abstract

Introduction: Magnetic resonance imaging-guided focused ultrasound (MRgFUS) has shown promising results for a variety of neurological conditions, including movement disorders, brain tumors, and degenerative diseases. Recent clinical trials have demonstrated that MRgFUS can produce therapeutic effects in essential tremor (ET) and Parkinson's disease (PD), comparable to those achieved with other neurosurgical interventions. Furthermore, there has been increasing attention on the development of FUS technology and its clinical applications, aimed at exploring new uses and enhancing existing ones.

Areas covered: In this review, a comprehensive search was conducted across multiple platforms, including PubMed, Scopus, and the Cochrane Library. Filters were applied to include studies based on publication year and clinical trials involving human subjects (excluding animal studies). A thorough analysis of the results was crucial for achieving the objectives of our research. While some studies are still awaiting results, they show promise; others have already been completed.

Expert opinion: The authors specifically selected six studies that yielded excellent results, covering aspects such as treatment side effects, pain location, key findings, ultrasound temperature, and sample size. he aim of this review is to provide an overview of the recent literature and ongoing clinical trials regarding the application of MRgFUS in the treatment of neuropathic pain.

Keywords: Central nervous system; focused ultrasound; neuropathic pain; noninvasive brain stimulation; transcranial magnetic resonance; treatment.