Key Points
- Seoul National University Hospital is a global leader in innovation, research, and clinical care.
- Its focused ultrasound program is led by a multidisciplinary team of radiologists, neurosurgeons, urologists, gynecologists, and biomedical researchers.
The Focused Ultrasound Foundation recently named Seoul National University Hospital (SNUH) a focused ultrasound Center of Excellence, recognizing its leadership and innovation in research, clinical care,, and education. SNUH is the first institution in South Korea to receive the designation and the 20th worldwide.
Widely considered one of the top medical institutions in the region, SNUH is globally ranked among the best hospitals in the world. With a strong tradition of treating complex and rare diseases, the hospital serves as a destination for patients seeking expert care and innovative treatment options.
This focused ultrasound program is led by a multidisciplinary team of radiologists, neurosurgeons, urologists, gynecologists, and biomedical researchers. The team conducts both clinical and preclinical research through the Core Hub for Medical Research of Ultrasound (or “CHORUS”), established in 2008, and has been instrumental in driving advances in thermal ablation, sonodynamic therapy, immunomodulation, and Alzheimer’s disease treatment.
“Seoul National University Hospital has established itself as a global leader in focused ultrasound research, combining clinical excellence with a commitment to innovation,” said Neal F. Kassell, MD, founder and chairman of the Focused Ultrasound Foundation. “Its pioneering work in treating Alzheimer’s disease and pancreatic cancer reflects the power of multidisciplinary collaboration and highlights the vast potential of focused ultrasound to transform patient care and improve lives.”
SNUH researchers have conducted several groundbreaking focused ultrasound clinical trials, especially for the treatment of uterine fibroids, adenomyosis, and pancreatic cancer. A pilot study led by SNUH investigators published in the European Journal of Cancer in June suggested that focused ultrasound may improve tumor response and survival outcomes for patients with pancreatic cancer—a potentially significant step forward for a devastating disease.
The institution has also implemented a variety of cutting-edge focused ultrasound systems, such as Exablate Neuro and Focal One, to treat neurological and prostate conditions.
“We are deeply honored that Seoul National University Hospital has been designated as a focused ultrasound Center of Excellence by the Focused Ultrasound Foundation,” said Jae Young Lee, MD, PhD, professor of radiology at SNUH. “This recognition reflects the dedication of our multidisciplinary team and our commitment to advancing focused ultrasound through clinical care, research, and education. We look forward to working closely with the Foundation and other leading institutions to accelerate the development of noninvasive, patient-centered therapies for challenging diseases.”
Established in 2009, the Foundation’s Centers of Excellence Program recognizes premier sites for their significant contributions to translational and clinical research, training, and the advancement of focused ultrasound technology. These centers act as hubs for collaboration between academia, industry, and the Foundation, furthering the global adoption of this noninvasive therapeutic platform.
As a Center of Excellence, SNUH will partner closely with the Focused Ultrasound Foundation and other international institutions to accelerate the clinical adoption of focused ultrasound therapies. The designation provides more opportunities for collaboration, funding, and education while advancing SNUH’s mission to pioneer noninvasive, patient-centered treatment approaches.
Information about the Foundation’s Center of Excellence program and criteria for becoming a Center of Excellence can be found by visiting our website.