Turku HIFU Research Centre has three clinical therapeutic ultrasound systems (Philips Sonalleve MR-HIFU, Profound TULSA-PRO, and Insightec Exablate 4000), which are used to treat patients with uterine fibroids, bone metastases, prostate cancer, and medication-refractory essential tremor and tremor-dominant Parkinson’s diseases. The Profound ultrasound therapy platforms are integrated with Philips Ingenia 3T MRI scanner, and the Insightec Exablate treatment console is integrated with a GE Signa Premier 3T MRI scanner.
Philips Ingenia and GE Signa Premier 3T MR systems
Ingenia and GE Signa Premier 3T MR systems are used for treatment planning by acquiring high-resolution MR images of the therapeutic area. In addition, the systems are used for the real-time monitoring of HIFU therapy with MR thermometry. The scanner is equipped with multiple coils for different physical locations in the body.
Profound Sonalleve MR-HIFU
Sonalleve MR-HIFU is an ultrasound therapy platform that integrates an advanced High Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) system into the patient table of Philips MRI systems (Philips Ingenia 3T). This allows you to perform non-invasive HIFU therapy supported by advanced planning and temperature monitoring using MR imaging. The system hence offers patients a non-invasive alternative to traditional surgical treatment or radiotherapy. At Turku HIFU Research Centre Sonalleve MR-HIFU is used for the treatment of uterine fibroids and palliative pain management of bone metastases.
Profound TULSA-PRO
TULSA-PRO combines real-time MRI with transurethral, robotically-driven therapeutic ultrasound and closed-loop thermal feedback control to provide precise ablation of the prostate while simultaneously actively protecting critical surrounding anatomy from potential side effects. The system provides patients with a new therapeutic alternative for the ablation of malignant tissue within the prostate. At Turku HIFU Research Centre the TULSA-PRO is used for the localised prostate cancer treatment.