At Ascension St. Vincent Heart Center, father-son interventional cardiologists Michael and Kevin Ball share a calling, a specialty and a commitment to caring for patients.
MRI focused ultrasound
Advanced, incisionless treatment for essential tremor and Parkinson’s disease—available at Lucas Family Brain and Spine Hospital at Ascension St. Vincent.
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.
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
Your care team will evaluate your condition and order:
- CT scan to assess skull density
- MRI scan to map brain targets
- Head is shaved for treatment accuracy
- A frame is placed to keep your head still
- You remain awake and able to communicate
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.
- 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
Frequently asked questions
Yes. MRI focused ultrasound is FDA-approved and has been shown to be safe and effective for treating tremors.
Most patients experience minimal discomfort. You remain awake and can communicate with your care team throughout the procedure.
Many patients notice improvement during the procedure itself.
Coverage varies. Your care team can help verify benefits and discuss options.
Get a second opinion
If you have questions about your diagnosis or treatment plan, a second opinion can help you better understand your options. Our stroke specialists can review your medical records and history to provide an additional perspective. Before your appointment, check with your insurance provider to find out if a second opinion is covered. We can request your medical records from your doctor on your behalf so they can be shared before your visit.
If you are experiencing a life-threatening emergency, go directly to the ER or call 911.
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