Ultrasound Technology Makes Non-Invasive Surgery a Reality

This video explains the basic principles behind a new type of non-invasive surgery. Magnetic Resonance guided Focused Ultrasound, as the new technology is officially called, is a revolutionary technology that looks as though it was lifted directly from the pages of a science fiction novel. It is medical reality, however, and viewers are treated to a first-hand demonstration of the procedure. The demonstration is presented by Yoav Medan, winner of the IBM Outstanding Technical Achievement Award, the Outstanding Research Division Award and the 3rd Invention Achievement Award. Medan is the current Vice President and Chief Systems Architect of InSightec Management, the company that developed the new technique.

The key to the new technology, according to Medan, is the artful combination of two important technologies. Ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are both well-established medical technologies. Brought together through the use of software that allows extreme precision, ultrasound and MRI can be used to target and destroy tumors or other defects through flesh and bone without incisions and without causing harm to the surrounding tissues. Patients remain awake during the entire procedure and often see immediate results.

Ultrasound technology has been around for decades, but InSightec’s invention marks the first time doctors have had the ability to shape and focus sound waves precisely on minute areas within the human body. According to Medan, the new technology has broad applications for treating disease, including cancer, pain and neurological conditions.

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