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Real members of MyParkinsonsTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.
A MyParkinsonsTeam Member asked a question 💭
Gloucester Point, VA
July 21
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A MyParkinsonsTeam Member

Focused Ultrasound (or HIFU - High Intensity Focuse Ultrasound)... may I contribute my 2cents. I investigated this procedure +/-3 years ago with a neurosurgeon who specialized in this treatment. Developed to help ET patients, it then expanded to PD patients. After investigating both, and also due to the HIFU neuro's advice, I am choosing to go with DBS - probably in the next 1-2 years. Why? HIFU is non-invasive, which was the carrot I was looking for. DBS is obviously not. But the success rate for HIFU was onnly hovering around 50-75% for PD, and the improvement to symptoms (primarily tremors) ranged from 6 months to maybe as much as4-5 years. DBS, while being invasive surgery to the brain, is almost always successful in (1) helping to alleviate symptoms, (2) increase on-time, (3) reducing medication need, and (4) lasting for potentially as much as 10-15 years. That's why i will go with DBS.
That said perhaps HIFU success rates have improved in the past 2-3 years.
Do what is right for you.

July 21
A MyParkinsonsTeam Member

Focused Ultersound (FUS)
Russell6 I would give that a shot and it FDA approved that's interesting 👍

July 21
A MyParkinsonsTeam Member

I would be interested in hearing about that also!

July 21
MyParkinsonsTeam

Focused ultrasound (FUS) is a non-invasive procedure that has shown real promise for Parkinson's disease, particularly for reducing tremors. It works by using sound waves to target a specific area of the brain responsible for tremor without any incisions.

Here's what's generally known about it:

- It's FDA-approved for Show Full Answer

Focused ultrasound (FUS) is a non-invasive procedure that has shown real promise for Parkinson's disease, particularly for reducing tremors. It works by using sound waves to target a specific area of the brain responsible for tremor without any incisions.

Here's what's generally known about it:

- It's FDA-approved for treating tremor-dominant Parkinson's
- Most people notice tremor improvement on one side of the body right away
- It's typically a one-time procedure done while you're awake
- Results can vary — some people experience long-lasting relief, while others may see effects wear off over time
- It's not suitable for everyone, so a specialist evaluation is needed

The most important thing is to have an open conversation with your neurologist or a movement disorder specialist to find out if you're a good candidate.

While the search results didn't surface specific member stories about focused ultrasound this time, many MyParkinsonsTeam members have shared experiences with various procedures — it's a great place to find real-world perspectives from people who've been through it firsthand.

July 21
A MyParkinsonsTeam Member

I went to Hunter Holmes Veterans hospital today to the Parkinson's ward and they asked me to hold off on the DBS until they are more sure that I really have Parkinson's!They want to do some med changes and do a skin biopsy to check for a certain protein and I have to keep a diary of when I take my meds and how I feel at that time and how long untill if ever until I feel results. So wish me luck and we will see what they come up with,

July 31

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A MyParkinsonsTeam Member asked a question 💭
Gloucester Point, VA

A MyParkinsonsTeam Member asked a question 💭
Gloucester Point, VA