Introduction
Preclinical studies support investigation of focused ultrasound for breakdown of cerebral pathologies in neurodegenerative conditions including Alzheimer's disease (AD) and Parkinson's disease (PD).
Methods
A focused transcranial Doppler device with probes (2 MHz, 520 mW/cm
2
) affixed bilaterally was used to target the hippocampus (AD) or substantia nigra (PD) with functional magnetic resonance imaging navigation for enhanced plaque removal. A total of 22 patients (n = 11 AD, n = 11 PD) underwent 8 consecutive, weekly, 1-hour treatments wherein sleep was encouraged naturally or pharmacologically. Cognitive and motor functioning assessment was carried out using standardized evaluations at baseline and conclusion.
Results
Of all, 62.5% of patients had one or more improved cognitive scores without data incongruence, 87% had stable or improved fine motor scores, and 87.5% had stable or improved gross motor scores. No adverse events were reported.
Discussion
The safety of focused transcranial Doppler and possible enhancement in patient functioning were suggested by outcome data.
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