Focused Ultrasound Therapy
Focused ultrasound is a therapeutic technology that could transform the quality of life and decrease the cost of care for patients with Morbihan disease (a rare condition characterized by chronic erythematous edema localized on the face, which may be associated with underlying rosacea). This novel technology focuses beams of ultrasound energy precisely and accurately on targets deep in the body without damaging surrounding normal tissue.
How it Works
Where the beams converge, focused ultrasound produces mild hyperthermia, which is believed to improve lymph drainage. In a case report (below), there was improvement in the patient after focused ultrasound treatment.
The primary options for treatment of Morbihan disease are very limited. The use of focused ultrasound may be another option which can improve the lives of patients with Morbihan disease.
For certain patients, focused ultrasound could provide a noninvasive more effective treatment compared to conventional therapy. While significant work has been accomplished, there is still much to be done before this technology will be widely available.
Advantages
For certain patients, focused ultrasound could provide a noninvasive alternative to surgery with less risk of complications – such as like surgical wound healing or infection – at a lower cost. Focused ultrasound can reach the desired target without damaging surrounding tissue, and it can be repeated, if necessary.
Clinical Trials
At the present time, there are no clinical trials recruiting patients for focused ultrasound treatment of Morbihan disease.
Regulatory Approval and Reimbursement
Focused ultrasound treatment for Morbihan disease is not yet approved by regulatory bodies or covered by medical insurance companies.
Notable Papers
Li M, Tao M, Zhang Y, Pan R, Gu D, Xu Y. Effect of High-Intensity Macro-Focused Ultrasound on a Case of Morbihan Disease. Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol. 2023 Jul 25;16:1949-1954. doi: 10.2147/CCID.S417070. eCollection 2023. PMID: 37519942
Click here for additional references from PubMed.
