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High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) for Essential Tremor and Parkinson’s Tremor in New Jersey 

Living with essential tremor or Tremor from Parkinson’s disease can be incredibly challenging, affecting patients’ physical and emotional well-being. Approximately 10 million Americans are grappling with essential tremor, seeking effective solutions to improve their quality of life. 

At New Jersey Brain and Spine, our high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) program is providing many of these patients with new hope.

Note: While HIFU is being researched for other medical uses, such as in oncology and aesthetic medicine, this treatment page focuses solely on its FDA-approved application for essential tremor and tremor-dominant Parkinson’s Disease. 

What is HIFU?

HIFU is a minimally invasive alternative to deep brain stimulation for patients with essential tremor and Tremor dominant Parkinson’s disease who have not responded to medications. With HIFU, our highly specialized neurosurgeons utilize precisely focused ultrasound waves to disrupt neural circuits responsible for tremors, providing relief without traditional surgical interventions. Patients experience immediate and significant reduction in hand tremors.

HIFU uses sound waves to treat brain tissue that is the source of a tremor, so no incisions or anesthesia are required. The outpatient procedure involves using an MRI machine, where physicians monitor and confirm where energy is being delivered. HIFU treatment—also called MRI-guided focused ultrasound (MRgFUS) or focused ultrasound (FUS)—starts with low energy to reversibly identify the target area, and then is gradually increased to produce long-term or permanent results. 

Typically, HIFU treatment takes about two to three hours, and most patients experience a significant and immediate reduction in tremor. One recent study found that 70 percent of patients who pursue HIFU treatment experience relief in symptoms.

Key Benefits and Conditions Treated With HIFU

Some of the key benefits associated with HIFU treatment include the fact that it is a one-time, noninvasive procedure. Patients also experience: 

• Immediate tremor relief
• No surgical wound, anesthesia, or hospitalization
• Usually Fast recovery (returning home the same day treatment is received) 

Who Is a Candidate for HIFU?

Patients who make good candidates for high-intensity focused ultrasound treatment, include: 

• Adults who have an essential tremor or tremor-dominant Parkinson’s Disease that affects one or both of their hands. 
• Those with a tremor that is severe enough to disrupt daily activity and have not been relieved by other medications
• Patients who meet skull density guidelines and can tolerate MRI

Case Study: A Patient Successfully Treated with HIFU for Essential Tremors 

Bob Bosloper, a 75-year-old retiree from Hawthorne, New Jersey, has lived with essential tremors in both of his hands since his early 20s. He’s one of approximately 10 million Americans living with this neurological condition. Bosloper and others like him struggle with drawing a straight line, putting in contact lenses, even sipping coffee without spilling it on themselves. Over time, “everyday” activities become extraordinary feats for Bosloper and 10 million others.

But they don’t have to, thanks to the team at New Jersey Brain and Spine. Under the care of Dr. Hooman Azmi, Bosloper underwent separate high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) treatments — first for his dominant hand, then for his left hand. Given the success of his first treatment — a great reduction in tremors almost immediately, with no return — Bosloper said he had no hesitation to pursue HIFU for his left hand as soon as the FDA gave the greenlight for non-dominant-side treatments.

Now, more than 50 years after his tremors first began, Bosloper has his life back, and he’s back to being able to participate in one of his greatest passions: playing the church organ. “I’m feeling great. This is terrific. This treatment is a great blessing,” Bosloper said. 

Why Choose New Jersey Brain and Spine for HIFU

With decades of experience and a deep involvement in cutting-edge research, New Jersey Brain and Spine specialists have been at the forefront of utilizing HIFU technology as an alternative to deep brain stimulation. 

Our dedicated movement disorders subspecialty team provides personalized and compassionate treatment right here in New Jersey. As early adopters of advanced technology like focused ultrasound techniques, we can offer a variety of surgical and nonsurgical options to improve your quality of life. 

Insurance Coverage for HIFU

Medicare covers high-intensity focused ultrasound, as well as many private insurers. NJBS office support can help you verify coverage. 

Learn More By Contacting New Jersey Brain and Spine 

If you are experiencing challenges to daily living due to essential tremor or Parkinson’s tremor and medications have not helped, contact New Jersey Brain and Spine to schedule a consultation. Our high-intensity focused ultrasound program is providing many patients with new hope. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound