Treatment guide · Functional neurology

MR-guided focused ultrasound (MRgFUS)

MRgFUS uses focused ultrasound under MRI guidance to create a precise lesion in a selected brain target. It is incisionless but not non-invasive in risk or outcome.

Evidence-informed editorial guide · Medical review pending · Not personal medical advice
Typical procedure timeOften 2–4 hours in the MRI suite.
AnaesthesiaUsually the patient is awake with local anaesthesia and medicines for comfort.
HospitalOften outpatient or one-night observation.
Suggested Turkey stayCommonly 2–6 days for assessment and early neurological review.

The essentials

What is mr-guided focused ultrasound (mrgfus)?

MRgFUS is used for selected patients with medication-refractory essential tremor and certain other approved indications. Skull characteristics, symptoms, imaging and neurological status determine eligibility. The tissue effect is permanent.

What it may aim to do

  • Reduce disabling tremor on the treated side
  • Offer a non-incisional option for carefully selected patients
  • Monitor targeting and temperature under MRI guidance

Is this treatment suitable for me?

A webpage cannot determine this safely. Suitability must be decided by the responsible specialist after reviewing your symptoms, examination, medical history, medicines and relevant tests. Our coordinator can help you prepare the right records, but does not make the clinical decision.

Request an assessment
01
Procedure and techniqueHow it may be performed and what to discuss
  • Stereotactic head-frame placement
  • MRI planning and repeated low-energy test sonications
  • Therapeutic sonication of the selected target

The appropriate technique can only be selected after examination, clinical indication and informed consent.

02
Recovery and travelTypical milestones, Turkey stay and fit-to-fly decision
Same day

Neurological checks assess tremor, balance, sensation and speech.

First week

Head-frame soreness, fatigue, imbalance or sensory symptoms may occur.

Weeks to months

Clinical follow-up tracks benefit and persistent adverse effects.

Planning your stay in Turkey

Commonly 2–6 days for assessment and early neurological review. This is a planning range. The treating team must confirm discharge and fitness to travel.

03
Price and inclusionsWhat may change the quotation
  • Eligibility imaging and skull-density assessment
  • MRI suite and focused-ultrasound system
  • Neurology and neurosurgical team
  • Observation and follow-up
  • Management of persistent adverse effects

Often included—confirm in writing

  • Surgeon and anaesthesia fees stated in the written quotation
  • Hospital or licensed surgical-facility charges
  • Routine pre-operative tests listed in advance
  • Standard medication and scheduled early follow-up

Often excluded—ask before paying

  • Flights, travel insurance and unrelated medical care unless stated
  • Extra nights, companion expenses or additional tests unless listed
  • Treatment of complications, readmission or revision unless the policy says so
  • Any procedure added after examination and informed consent
04
Questions and answersFAQ and a short consultation checklist
Is MRgFUS reversible?

No. Although there is no surgical incision, the treatment intentionally creates a permanent lesion in a selected brain target.

Can both sides be treated?

Indications and staged bilateral treatment rules vary. Bilateral risk—especially speech and balance effects—requires specialist discussion.

Can my result be guaranteed?

No. Surgery can improve a concern, but healing, scars, symmetry and the final result vary. A responsible surgeon explains the realistic range of outcomes and the possibility of revision without promising perfection.

When can I fly home?

Only after the treating team confirms that recovery is progressing safely. The suggested stay on this page is a planning range, not medical clearance. Longer flights, anaemia, mobility limits and clot risk may require a longer stay.

What should I arrange before travelling?

Share an accurate medical history, medication and supplement list, smoking or nicotine use, previous surgery and relevant photographs or reports. Arrange travel insurance, an adult companion where advised, time away from work and a named follow-up clinician at home.

When should I seek urgent help?

Follow the hospital's written emergency plan. New shortness of breath, chest pain, one-sided leg swelling, uncontrolled bleeding, fainting, high fever, rapidly worsening pain or sudden colour change require urgent medical assessment.

Ask the treating doctor

  • Why do you recommend this procedure for my case?
  • Who will perform the procedure, and where?
  • What should I expect during recovery?
  • What follow-up will I receive after I return home?
05
Sources and review statusReferences used for this general guide

These sources support general information only and do not replace advice based on your examination and history.

Focused Ultrasound Foundation — Essential tremor US FDA — ExAblate Neuro
Last editorial update
19 September 2026
Medical reviewer
Pending appointment

Understand your mr-guided focused ultrasound (mrgfus) options

A coordinator can explain which medical records a specialist is likely to need and prepare a transparent comparison without promising suitability or results.

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