Focused Ultrasound Procedure in New Jersey

Focused Ultrasound (FUS), also known as high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU), is a minimally invasive alternative to deep brain stimulation (DBS) for patients with essential tremor and Parkinson’s Disease tremor that has not responded to medications.

Focused ultrasound uses acoustic energy, or sound waves, to treat brain tissue that is the source of the tremor. The ultrasound is applied while the patient is in an MRI machine, so that a physician can precisely monitor and confirm where the energy is being delivered. It does not require any implants or long-term maintenance.

The outpatient procedure, which typically takes two hours, doesn’t require surgical incisions or anesthesia and many patients experience immediate and significant reduction in hand tremors, which can make activities of daily living challenging. Patients can return home the same day.

Why Choose Us

Hackensack Meridian Health was the first health care network in New Jersey to offer high intensity focused ultrasound treatment for the treatment of essential tremors and Parkinson's disease tremor. 

Hackensack Meridian Health Focused Ultrasound Locations

We offer this minimally-invasive treatment at three of our Hackensack Meridian Neuroscience Institute locations in New Jersey. Find out if you are a candidate.

Hackensack Meridian Neuroscience Institute at Hackensack University Medical Center
650 From Road, Paramus, NJ 07652
FUS@hmhn.org
848-305-4381

Hackensack Meridian Neuroscience Institute at JFK University Medical Center
65 James Street, Edison, NJ 08818
jfkmovementdisorders@hmhn.org
848-327-5711

Hackensack Meridian Neuroscience Institute at Jersey Shore University Medical Center
1945 Rt. 33, Neptune, NJ 07753
movement.disorder@hmhn.org
732-974-0003

How Focused Ultrasound Treatment Works

There is no radiation, no anesthesia, no extensive scarring and minimal to no risk of infection. Patients should expect to have their heads completely shaved before the procedure and will have to lay flat for at least two hours.

HiFU is FDA approved for the treatment of essential tremor and Parkinson’s related tremor in both hands, in two separate treatments. The first procedure will treat tremors on a patient’s dominant side. So if a patient is left-handed, the first procedure will be on the left side. Then, nine months later, a second procedure on the second side.

The treatment works immediately so patients can return home on the same day as the procedure – tremor free.