Royal Philips (NYSE:PHG) announced that it is collaborating with InSightec to expand access to MR-guided focused ultrasound.
Amsterdam-based Philips plans to develop compatibility between its advanced MR system and InSightec’s Exablate Neuro platform to expand access to MR-guided focused ultrasound for incision-less neurosurgery in treating essential tremor and other neurological disorders, according to a news release.
MR-guided focused ultrasound uses high-intensity sound waves guided by magnetic resonance imaging to target and treat the area of the brain responsible for the tremor. Patients can undergo the incision-less procedure in an outpatient setting.
InSightec’s Exablate Neuro platform, which focuses sound waves, guided by MRI, to provide tremor relief, will be combined with Philips’ MR Ingenia Elition 3.0T, Ingenia 3.0T and Ingenia 1.5T systems.
The companies expect to bring the product to market for the compatible systems in 2023 with offerings available for existing and new customers.
“As a leading innovator in MR imaging to support precise diagnosis and targeted therapies, we continue to expand the role of MR in providing precision guidance for minimally invasive therapy solutions into new treatment areas,” Philips GM for MR Arjen Radder said in the release. “By partnering with InSightec we are expanding access to Philips’ advanced MR capabilities to a wider range of healthcare providers, including neurosurgery practices both in-hospital and in outpatient settings, as well as the global research community. Together, we aim to advance towards clear care pathways with predictable outcomes for every patient.”
“InSightec is committed to expanding patient access for MR-guided focused ultrasound, which is rapidly being adopted as a standard of care worldwide for treating essential tremor, as well as continuing to develop a research pipeline for the treatment of many other disorders,” added InSightec CEO & chairman Dr. Maurice R. Ferré. “Partnering with Philips will help increase adoption of our innovative technology to transform patient care.”