The Thermal Ablation with MRgFUS: From Physics to Oncological Applications

The growing interest in minimal and non-invasive therapies, especially in the field of cancer treatment, highlights a significant shift towards safer and more effective options. High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) stands out as a promising alternative to traditional percutaneous ablative procedures. By combining HIFU with MRI guidance, we can enhance treatment precision, improve real-time procedural control, and ensure accurate outcome assessment. Magnetic Resonance-guided Focused Ultrasound (MRgFUS) induces deep coagulation necrosis within an elliptical focal area, effectively encompassing the entire tumor site and allowing for highly targeted radical ablation. The applications of MRgFUS in oncology are expanding rapidly. It offers pain relief and curative treatment options for bone metastatic lesions. Additionally, it plays an effective role in targeted optional therapies for early prostate and breast tumors. Emerging research focuses also on the potential uses in treating abdominal cancers and harnessing capabilities to stimulate immune responses against tumors or facilitate the delivery of anticancer drugs. This evolving landscape presents exciting opportunities for improving patient outcomes and advancing cancer treatment methodologies. In neuro-oncology, MRgFUS utilizes Low-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (LIFU) along with intravenous microbubbles to open the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and enhance the intra-tumoral delivery of chemotherapy drugs.