The Focused Ultrasound Foundation has named Aarhus University Hospital in Denmark a Focused Ultrasound Center of Excellence. This makes Aarhus the first such center in Scandinavia and the 15th globally. The hospital is now part of a network dedicated to advancing focused ultrasound technology.
Since 2009, the Centers of Excellence Program has recognized institutions that excel in research and clinical use of focused ultrasound. This designation highlights Aarhus University Hospital’s commitment to advancing treatments using this innovative technology. The Center will foster collaboration among specialists in neurology, neurosurgery, oncology, radiology, and engineering.
Neal F. Kassell, MD, founder of the Focused Ultrasound Foundation, emphasized the hospital’s role in enhancing treatment options. “The work at Aarhus demonstrates the incredible potential of focused ultrasound—from treating movement disorders to advancing care for conditions like Parkinson’s and dementia,” he said. Aarhus University Hospital is paving the way for more access to these treatments in Scandinavia.
Focused ultrasound was first employed at Aarhus in 2022, targeting essential tremor. By 2024, over 170 patients received this non-invasive therapy. The hospital plans to expand its offerings in 2025, including clinical studies for tremor-dominant Parkinson’s disease.
This year, Aarhus University and the hospital launched a focused ultrasound platform for preclinical research. They aim to explore treatments for Parkinson’s-related dementia, supported by various foundations and EU funding. Future studies may include neuromodulation techniques and focused ultrasound gene therapy.
Jens Christian Hedemann Sørensen, a leader at Aarhus, expressed pride in this new designation. “Focused ultrasound treatment is a significant advance for patients with essential tremor and has potential for further applications,” he noted. The hospital plans to collaborate with other centers to improve care for movement disorders.
Future research will also look into using focused ultrasound for drug delivery and neurostimulation, which could change how we treat neurodegenerative diseases and psychiatric disorders. A study set for 2025 will focus on optimizing treatment for Parkinson’s patients using advanced imaging and biomarkers.
Aarhus University Hospital has been recognized as Denmark’s best hospital multiple times and ranks high in global health care innovation. It uses advanced technologies, such as AI and robotic surgery, to improve patient care. Facilities include high-resolution imaging systems essential for both clinical and preclinical studies.
Focused ultrasound technology allows for non-invasive treatment using ultrasound energy. In the U.S., it is FDA-approved for conditions like essential tremor and prostate issues. Research continues on its potential for treating over 180 diseases worldwide.
The Focused Ultrasound Foundation, established in 2006, aims to enhance lives by advancing this technology. It funds research and promotes awareness among patients and professionals, becoming a leading source for focused ultrasound research funding.
Aarhus University Hospital stands out as a premier institution in Denmark, focusing on interdisciplinary care and research. Its close relationship with Aarhus University fosters continual innovation in healthcare.
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