Magnetic Resonance Image Guided Focused Ultrasound Surgery (MRgFUS)
Magnetic resonance guided focused ultrasound (MRgFUS) is a non-invasive outpatient procedure that uses high intensity focused ultrasound waves to ablate (destroy) the fibroid tissue. During the procedure, an interventional radiologist uses magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to see inside the body to deliver treatment directly to the fibroid. MRgFUS is an FDA approved procedure.
MRI scans identify the tissue in the body to treat and are used to plan each patient’s procedure. MRI’s provide a three-dimensional view of the targeted tissues, allowing for precise focusing and delivery of the ultrasound energy. MRI also enables the physician to monitor tissue temperature in real-time to ensure adequate but safe heating of the target. Immediate imaging of the treated area following MRgFUS helps the physician determine if the treatment was successful.
The ultrasound energy used in MRgFUS can pass through the skin, muscle, fat and other soft tissues. High-intensity ultrasound energy that is directed to the fibroid heats up the tissue and destroys it. This method of tissue destruction is called thermal ablation.