High intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) is a novel, non-invasive treatment that is used to treat a wide range of tumors and diseases. HIFU uses an ultrasound transducer that has higher energy as compared to those used for diagnostic imaging. The transducer focuses on sound waves to generate heat at a single point within the body and destroys the target tissue. MRI images are used to plan the treatment and monitor the degree of heating in real time. Deep tissue penetration and thermal and mechanical interactions with human tissue are possible with ultrasound. With the development of high intensity focused ultrasound, a number of solid malignant tumors, such as those of the pancreas, liver, kidney, bone, prostate, and breast, as well as uterine fibroids and soft-tissue sarcomas, are clinically treatable. High intensity focused ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging can be combined to provide real-time imaging during ablation. HIFU has advantages such as:
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