In a recent NPR Bio-Tech Nation interview, Focused Ultrasound Foundation Chairman Neal Kassell, MD, describes the theory and potential applications of this emerging approach to medical treatment. The treatment uses “multiple intersecting beams of high-frequency sound” to accurately target specific structures within the body with little effects on surrounding structures. Think magnifying glass and sunlight transformed into a concentrated and powerful beam of light.

Touted as an “early-stage, disruptive, noninvasive therapeutic technology,” focused ultrasound treatment is currently being investigated worldwide in reputable research institutions. In addition to oncology, pre-clinical and clinical trials are underway investigating other applications in fields including neurological, cardiovascular, musco-skeletal, endocrine disorders, and women’s health.

Further investigation includes revolutionizing targeted approaches to drug delivery within certain areas of the body. The Focused Ultrasound Foundation was recently represented by Dr.  Kassell with best-selling author John Grisham in Gary’s Book Club at the annual CES ®2018.

Resources

BioTech Nation Radio Podcast

Focused Ultrasound, State of the Field 2017

Share this

Related Posts

The Utilization of Telehealth Services (Drazen Zigic/shutterstock.com)

The Utilization of Telehealth Services

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the American Academy of Audiology (2020) provided audiologists with guidance regarding the use of telehealth services. In October 2021, the Academy released a position statement titled The Use of Telehealth for the Delivery of Audiological Services. Members can access this statement here. While the COVID-19 pandemic may have expanded telehealth services,…

Read More
Postural Sway Observations in Children with ADHD

Postural Sway Observations in Children with ADHD

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) affects approximately five percent of the pediatric population. Up to 50 percent of children with ADHD also exhibit motor control and balance issues in addition to the more commonly seen symptoms of hyperactivity, impulsivity and inattention. Fidgeting, poor motor planning, increased postural sway, and difficulty sitting still may be related…

Read More
Deaths from Unintentional Falls in Older Adults (Cedric E/shutterstock.com)

Deaths from Unintentional Falls in Older Adults

At the end of September 2022, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released data overviewing rates of death resulting from unintentional falls between the years of 1999–2020 by adults 65 years and older (Garnett et al, 2022). The report showed that death rates have increased, with the largest increase seen by those aged…

Read More