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MRI focused ultrasound for Tremors in Indianapolis

Advanced, incisionless treatment for essential tremor and Parkinson’s disease—available at Lucas Family Brain and Spine Hospital at Ascension St. Vincent.

If tremors are interfering with your daily life, MRI focused ultrasound offers a noninvasive, highly effective treatment option—without surgery or implanted devices.
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What is an MRI focused ultrasound?

A MRI focused ultrasound is an innovative treatment that uses precisely targeted sound waves to treat the area of the brain causing tremors.

Using real-time MRI imaging, specialists can:

  • Pinpoint the exact source of tremors
  • Deliver focused energy without harming surrounding tissue
  • Improve symptoms immediately in many cases

This technology creates a small, controlled lesion in the brain that disrupts abnormal signals responsible for tremors.

Conditions treated

MRI focused ultrasound is commonly used to treat:

  • Essential tremor
  • Parkinson’s disease tremors

Why choose focused ultrasound?

Compared to traditional surgical options like deep brain stimulation (DBS), focused ultrasound offers:

  • No surgery - No incisions, no implants, and no surgical risks
  • Outpatient procedure - Go home the same day
  • Fast results - Many patients notice improvement during the procedure
  • Minimal recovery time - Resume normal activities quickly
  • Proven effectiveness - Patients often experience significant tremor reduction

What to expect

  • Step 1: Consultation and imaging

    Your care team will evaluate your condition and order:

    • CT scan to assess skull density
    • MRI scan to map brain targets
  • Step 2: Day of treatment
    • Head is shaved for treatment accuracy
    • A frame is placed to keep your head still
    • You remain awake and able to communicate
  • Step 3: Real-time treatment

    Inside the MRI:

    • Low energy ultrasound is used to test the target
    • Your response is evaluated immediately
    • The treatment is adjusted for optimal results

    This process ensures precision and safety at every step.

  • Recovery and results
    • Procedure time: 2–3 hours
    • Same-day discharge
    • Follow-up MRI within 24 hours
    • Ongoing visits at 3, 6, and 12 months

    What results can you expect?

    • Significant tremor reduction (often 70–75%)
    • Improved ability to perform daily tasks
    • Long-lasting results—often 5 years or more

    *Patient results may vary.


Who is a candidate?

You may qualify for focused ultrasound if:

  • You have essential tremor or Parkinson’s disease
  • Medications have not provided enough relief
  • Tremors impact your daily life (e.g., eating, writing)

Additional requirements

  • Able to lie still during MRI (1–2 hours)
  • Prior treatments like DBS may still allow eligibility

A specialist at Ascension St. Vincent will determine if this treatment is right for you.

MRI focused ultrasound in Indianapolis, Indiana

Ascension St. Vincent is proud to offer MRI focused ultrasound in Indianapolis, bringing advanced neurological care closer to home.

We coordinate care to make treatment as convenient as possible, including:

  • Local imaging options when available
  • Streamlined follow-up care
  • Telehealth appointments for select visits

Take the next step toward tremor relief

You don’t have to live with debilitating tremors. Learn if MRI focused ultrasound is right for you.

Frequently asked questions

  • Is focused ultrasound safe?

    Yes. MRI focused ultrasound is FDA-approved and has been shown to be safe and effective for treating tremors.

  • Does the procedure hurt?

    Most patients experience minimal discomfort. You remain awake and can communicate with your care team throughout the procedure.

  • How quickly will I see results?

    Many patients notice improvement during the procedure itself.

  • Is this covered by insurance?

    Coverage varies. Your care team can help verify benefits and discuss options.