High-intensity focused ultrasound

High-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) is a non-invasive therapeutic technique that uses non-ionizing ultrasonic waves to heat tissue. HIFU can be used to increase the flow of blood or lymph, or to destroy tissue, such as tumors, through a number of mechanisms.

History

The concept of HIFU was first derived from the work of the acoustics pioneer Lord Rayleigh who, in 1884, described the physical properties of focused sound waves. This was followed by the work of Lynn and Putnam in 1942 who used ultrasound to ablate brain tumors.

Mechanism of action

HIFU works by focusing a beam of ultrasound energy into a small volume at specific target areas in the body. The focused beam causes localized high temperatures (55°C to 70°C) for a few seconds within the target area. This heat, in turn, destroys the cells in the target area while leaving the surrounding tissue unharmed.

Applications

HIFU has been found to have applications in the treatment of a range of benign and malignant conditions, including prostate cancer, uterine fibroids, kidney stones, and bone metastasis.

Risks and complications

While HIFU is generally safe, it can cause complications such as pain, infection, and damage to surrounding tissue. In rare cases, it can also cause more serious complications such as blood clots and nerve damage.

See also

• Ultrasound
• Therapeutic ultrasound
• Focused ultrasound

External links

• Focused Ultrasound Foundation

High-intensity focused ultrasound Resources
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