Image-Guided High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound, A Novel Application for Interventional Nuclear Medicine?

Image-guided high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) has been increasingly used in medicine over the past few decades, and several systems for such have become commercially available. HIFU has passed regulatory approval around the world for the ablation of various solid tumors, the treatment of neurologic diseases, and the palliative management of bone metastases. The mechanical and thermal effects of focused ultrasound provide a possibility for histotripsy, supportive radiation therapy, and targeted drug delivery. The integration of imaging modalities into HIFU systems allows for precise temperature monitoring and accurate treatment planning, increasing the safety and efficiency of treatment. Preclinical and clinical results have demonstrated the potential of image-guided HIFU to reduce adverse effects and increase the quality of life postoperatively. Interventional nuclear image-guided HIFU is an attractive noninvasive option for the future.

Automated summary

Image-guided high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) has gained increasing popularity in medicine for tumor ablation, neurological disease treatment, and bone metastases management. The mechanical and thermal effects of focused ultrasound enable tissue histotripsy, supportive radiation therapy, and targeted drug delivery. Integration of imaging modalities into HIFU systems enhances treatment precision and safety, showing potential to reduce adverse effects and improve postoperative quality of life.