Key Points
- Researchers evaluated the long-term benefit of focused ultrasound treatment of essential tremor.
- Data from 395 patients revealed hand tremors significantly improved from baseline to 24 months post-treatment, possibly lasting up to 48 months post-treatment and beyond.
A meta-analysis conducted by researchers at the University of Illinois-Chicago, Henry Ford Health System, and the University of Toledo evaluated whether patients who were treated for essential tremor using focused ultrasound experienced a diminished treatment benefit over time. The group analyzed 21 articles with a total of 395 patients and looked specifically at hand tremor scores (HTS), total clinical rating scale for tremor scores, and quality of life in essential tremor questionnaire scores after treatment. Although only four studies measured HTS longer than 24 months and the treatment effect was mildly decreased at 36 months, HTS significantly improved from baseline to 24 months post-treatment, possibly lasting to 48 months post-treatment and beyond.