Curing with Sound

Ep8: Dr. Stavros Zanos | The Promising Future of Focused Ultrasound Neuromodulation

In this episode, Dr. Stavros Zanos, a renowned researcher at the Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, discusses the potential of focused ultrasound neuromodulation in treating a wide range of cardiovascular and inflammatory diseases. Dr. Zanos explains how ultrasound activates neurons through mechanosensitive channels and shares the promising results of recent studies using neuromodulation to treat pulmonary arterial hypertension, reduce inflammatory markers, and potentially manage type 2 diabetes.Learn about the importance of precision in ultrasound neuromodulation to ensure accurate targeting of specific areas in the abdomen. This episode offers a fascinating glimpse into the future of medicine, where focused ultrasound neuromodulation could significantly impact the treatment of millions of patients worldwide.
Show Transcript----------------------------QUESTIONS?Email podcast@fusfoundation.org if you have a question or comment about the show, or if you would you like to connect about future guest appearances. 
Email info@fusfoundation.org if you have questions about focused ultrasound or the Foundation. 
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Ep7: Dr. Daniel Jeanmonod | Pioneering Breakthroughs in Functional Neurosurgery with Focused Ultrasound

Dr. Daniel Jeanmonod, a renowned functional neurosurgeon, joins us upon his retirement to reflect on his pioneering career. Since 1989, Dr. Jeanmonod has been at the forefront of focused ultrasound research and treatment for neuropathic pain, Parkinson's disease, and essential tremor. He recounts his groundbreaking achievement in using noninvasive focused ultrasound to treat patients at the University Children's Hospital of Zurich. He also discusses the establishment of the SoniModul Center of Ultrasound Functional Neurosurgery in Zurich and the center's impressive track record over its 14-year history. Dr. Jeanmonod shares fascinating patient stories that highlight the profound impact of focused ultrasound treatments on individuals suffering from chronic, therapy-resistant neuropathic pain. He also emphasizes the importance of considering the psycho-emotional aspects of pain management and the role of psychotherapy in optimizing treatment outcomes.Throughout the conversation, Dr. Jeanmonod offers valuable advice for young neurosurgeons interested in using focused ultrasound in functional neurosurgery. He stresses the significance of understanding the underlying mechanisms of brain disorders.
Show Transcript----------------------------QUESTIONS?Email podcast@fusfoundation.org if you have a question or comment about the show, or if you would you like to connect about future guest appearances. 
Email info@fusfoundation.org if you have questions about focused ultrasound or the Foundation. 
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Ep6: Special Webinar | Transforming Women’s Health with Focused Ultrasound

This episode features an insightful discussion on the potential of focused ultrasound in revolutionizing women's health care. The conversation, moderated by Dr. Jessica Foley, Chief Scientific Officer at the Focused Ultrasound Foundation, includes expert panelists Dr. Suzanne LeBlang, neuroradiologist and Director of Clinical Relationships at the Focused Ultrasound Foundation, Dr. Lynn Dengel, surgical oncologist at UVA Health, and Dr. Elisa Konofagou, professor of biomedical engineering and radiology at Columbia University.The discussion highlights the versatility of focused ultrasound in treating a wide range of conditions that disproportionately affect women, such as uterine fibroids, breast tumors, Alzheimer's disease, chronic pain, depression, and anxiety. The panelists share their experiences and research in using focused ultrasound for various applications, including ablation, immunotherapy, neuromodulation, and opening the blood-brain barrier for drug delivery.The experts also address the challenges faced in advancing focused ultrasound for women's health, including the need for more clinical trials with female participants, raising awareness among clinicians and patients, and securing insurance coverage. They emphasize the importance of collaboration among researchers, clinicians, and regulatory bodies to accelerate the translation of focused ultrasound technologies from bench to bedside.This engaging discussion offers valuable insights into the current state and future potential of focused ultrasound in improving the lives of women affected by a variety of health conditions. The episode also highlights the Focused Ultrasound Foundation's efforts in supporting research, fostering collaboration, and advocating for focused ultrasound as a transformative tool in women's health care.
Show Transcript----------------------------QUESTIONS?Email podcast@fusfoundation.org if you have a question or comment about the show, or if you would you like to connect about future guest appearances. 
Email info@fusfoundation.org if you have questions about focused ultrasound or the Foundation. 
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Ep5: Chuck Walker | A Couple’s Journey with Parkinson’s and Focused Ultrasound

Chuck Walker, an adventurer and business owner, began experiencing symptoms of Parkinson’s disease in 2013. In this episode, Chuck and his wife, Dr. Maureen Whelihan, share their inspiring journey with focused ultrasound treatment. Chuck shares how his Parkinson’s-related tremor affected his daily life, from running and riding motorcycles to giving presentations at work, and how medications fell short in managing his condition.Chuck and Maureen discuss their journey in learning about and deciding to participate in a clinical trial for bilateral focused ultrasound treatment. The couple walks us through the treatment process, the remarkable results, and the immediate improvements in Chuck's symptoms. They also touch on the emotional impact of the treatment, with Chuck regaining his dignity and confidence in both his personal and professional life. They emphasize the importance of clinical trials in advancing treatments like focused ultrasound therapy and express gratitude for the organizations and donors making these innovations possible.This inspiring episode showcases the power of focused ultrasound therapy in improving the lives of those living with Parkinson's disease, offering hope and encouragement to others who may qualify for this innovative treatment option for their symptoms.The patient story shared above is a personal account of an individual’s experience with focused ultrasound treatment. Please be aware that each patient’s situation is unique, and outcomes may vary. The information provided in this story should not be considered as medical advice or a guarantee of specific results. It is important to consult with a qualified healthcare provider to discuss your condition and determine the best treatment options for you. The Focused Ultrasound Foundation does not endorse any specific treatment or medical procedure and encourages all patients to seek professional medical guidance tailored to their individual needs.
Show Transcript----------------------------QUESTIONS?Email podcast@fusfoundation.org if you have a question or comment about the show, or if you would you like to connect about future guest appearances. 
Email info@fusfoundation.org if you have questions about focused ultrasound or the Foundation. 
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Ep4: Jessica Foley, PhD | Advancing Focused Ultrasound through Science, Policy, and Advocacy

In this episode of Curing with Sound, Dr. Jessica Foley, the Chief Scientific Officer and a Managing Director at the Focused Ultrasound Foundation, discusses her journey in the biomedical field, from her early interest in math and science to the groundbreaking work in focused ultrasound. Dr. Foley holds a Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Engineering from Duke University and a PhD in Bioengineering from the University of Washington, with an emphasis on focused ultrasound.Throughout the conversation, Dr. Foley shares her unique experience as a fellow for the American Association for the Advancement of Science and how it has shaped her career in science policy and advocacy. She reflects on the highlights of her career, including being present for the first essential tremor patients treated with focused ultrasound, a pivotal moment that has since led to over 10,000 patients receiving treatment worldwide.
 
Dr. Foley expresses her excitement about the future of focused ultrasound and its versatile applications, from enhancing drug delivery and inducing anti-cancer immune responses to neuromodulation for treating depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders. As the Chief Scientific Officer at the Focused Ultrasound Foundation, she plays a multifaceted role in advancing the field through research funding, advocacy, and government affairs.She emphasizes the importance of raising awareness about focused ultrasound, increasing its availability, and addressing the challenges of insurance coverage to ensure equitable access for patients. Dr. Foley also touches on her experience as a woman in the biotech field and offers advice for the next generation of women in science and engineering.Dr. Foley encourages listeners who are passionate about focused ultrasound to reach out and collaborate with the Foundation in breaking down barriers and moving the field forward.
Show Transcript----------------------------QUESTIONS?Email podcast@fusfoundation.org if you have a question or comment about the show, or if you would you like to connect about future guest appearances. 
Email info@fusfoundation.org if you have questions about focused ultrasound or the Foundation. 
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Ep3: Nir Lipsman, MD, PhD | Pioneering Focused Ultrasound Applications for the Brain

In this episode of Curing with Sound, Dr. Neal Kassell, founder and chairman of the Focused Ultrasound Foundation, is joined by Dr. Nir Lipsman, a neurosurgeon and senior scientist at Sunnybrook Research Institute in Toronto, Canada. Dr. Kassell considers Dr. Lipsman to be one of the most influential clinicians in the development and adoption of focused ultrasound, having pioneered several world-first clinical trials for various brain disorders.

Throughout the conversation, Dr. Lipsman discusses the evolution of his focused ultrasound program at Sunnybrook, which has grown exponentially over the past decade. His team has treated over 500 patients across a wide range of indications, including essential tremor, Parkinson's disease, obsessive-compulsive disorder, major depression, and various types of brain tumors.

One of the most exciting aspects of Dr. Lipsman's work is the use of focused ultrasound for opening the blood-brain barrier to enhance drug delivery. He shares the groundbreaking results of a trial in which they were able to visually confirm the passage of a large molecule, trastuzumab, directly into the brain to target metastatic breast cancer tumors. This achievement holds immense promise for the treatment of numerous brain disorders, particularly in the neurodegenerative space, where focused ultrasound could potentially change the natural history of diseases like Parkinson's and Alzheimer's.

Dr. Lipsman emphasizes the importance of collaboration and parallel progress in advancing the field of focused ultrasound. He highlights the critical role of the Focused Ultrasound Foundation in supporting and fostering the growth of his program and the global focused ultrasound community.

Looking to the future, Dr. Lipsman envisions focused ultrasound becoming a routine, well-tolerated outpatient procedure that can not only treat but also prevent and diagnose brain disorders. He remains committed to building a strong, multidisciplinary team at Sunnybrook and working with the global community to bring the transformative potential of focused ultrasound to patients worldwide. Harquail Centre for Neuromodulation 

Show Transcript----------------------------QUESTIONS?Email podcast@fusfoundation.org if you have a question or comment about the show, or if you would you like to connect about future guest appearances. 
Email info@fusfoundation.org if you have questions about focused ultrasound or the Foundation. 
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Ep2: Ken Dychtwald, PhD & Katsuto Shinohara, MD | Navigating a Prostate Cancer Diagnosis with Focused Ultrasound

In this episode of Curing with Sound, we speak with Dr. Ken Dychtwald, renowned gerontologist, best-selling author, and Founder of Age Wave, and Dr. Katsuto Shinohara, a leading urologic oncologist at UCSF. 
Dr. Dychtwald, who has dedicated his life to studying gerontology and the aging population, shares his initial shock upon being diagnosed with prostate cancer. He emphasizes the importance of men openly discussing prostate health issues, as many of his friends had experienced similar diagnoses.
When presented with treatment options, Dr. Dychtwald was intrigued by the potential of high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU), a minimally invasive procedure he had previously advocated for in his work. Under the care of Dr. Shinohara at UCSF, Dr. Dychtwald underwent HIFU treatment, which precisely targets cancerous tissue while preserving surrounding healthy tissue.
The procedure itself was swift, lasting less than 15 minutes, and Dr. Dychtwald was able to return to work the same day. He expresses his gratitude for the availability of this advanced technology and encourages others to inquire about focused ultrasound as a potential treatment option.
Both Dr. Dychtwald and Dr. Shinohara express optimism about the advancements in medical technology and the potential for focused ultrasound to revolutionize the treatment of various cancers and other conditions, ultimately contributing to improved quality of life and longevity.
The patient story shared above is a personal account of an individual’s experience with focused ultrasound treatment. Please be aware that each patient’s situation is unique, and outcomes may vary. The information provided in this story should not be considered as medical advice or a guarantee of specific results. It is important to consult with a qualified healthcare provider to discuss your condition and determine the best treatment options for you. The Focused Ultrasound Foundation does not endorse any specific treatment or medical procedure and encourages all patients to seek professional medical guidance tailored to their individual needs.
Show Transcript----------------------------QUESTIONS?Email podcast@fusfoundation.org if you have a question or comment about the show, or if you would you like to connect about future guest appearances. 
Email info@fusfoundation.org if you have questions about focused ultrasound or the Foundation. 
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Ep1: Neal Kassell, MD | A Remarkable Journey from Unconventional Student to World-Renowned Neurosurgeon

In the premiere episode of "Curing with Sound," we spotlight Dr. Neal Kassell, the Founder and Chairman of the Focused Ultrasound Foundation. Despite being blind in one eye and not completing his undergraduate degree, Dr. Kassell's unwavering commitment to making a significant impact on the world propelled him to become a leading neurosurgeon and a pioneer for focused ultrasound therapy.From a young age, Dr. Kassell was drawn to neurosurgery, gaining experience in a research lab at the age of 16 and later performing life-saving surgeries that would impact the lives of prominent figures and everyday individuals alike. His quest for better treatment options led him to focused ultrasound, a revolutionary noninvasive technology with the potential to transform treatment for a wide range of medical disorders, from neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s to cancer.Dr. Kassell is now spearheading the global adoption of this cutting-edge therapy through the Focused Ultrasound Foundation, which he established in 2006, with the mission of redefining patient care and improving millions of lives worldwide. His dedication to advancing medical innovation is not just about a breakthrough technology; it's about the power of determination and the passion to help others, even in the face of personal challenges.Tune in to hear Dr. Kassell’s inspiring story, learn about the future of medical treatment with focused ultrasound, and discover how his vision is bringing hope and healing to countless individuals around the world.----------------------------QUESTIONS?Email podcast@fusfoundation.org if you have a question or comment about the show, or if you would you like to connect about future guest appearances. 
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Ep0: Introduction to Curing with Sound

Welcome to Curing with Sound, a podcast presented by the Focused Ultrasound Foundation. In each episode, we'll explore the revolutionary therapy of focused ultrasound and how it's transforming the treatment of serious diseases and medical conditions such as Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, cancer, and more.Join host Allison Preston-Smith as she engages in thought-provoking discussions with leading researchers, medical experts, influential advocates, and the patients who have experienced the life-changing benefits of focused ultrasound firsthand.We'll also highlight the Foundation's steadfast commitment to advancing this technology and making it accessible to patients worldwide. You'll learn the latest advancements, clinical trials, and success stories, and gain a deeper understanding of how focused ultrasound works, its current applications, and its potential to alter the future of healthcare.Whether you're a doctor seeking cutting-edge treatment options, someone facing a health challenge, or simply fascinated with the future of science and medicine, Curing with Sound is your gateway to the extraordinary world of focused ultrasound and how its poised to reshape the medical landscape.
----------------------------QUESTIONS?Email podcast@fusfoundation.org if you have a question or comment about the show, or if you would you like to connect about future guest appearances. 
Email info@fusfoundation.org if you have questions about focused ultrasound or the Foundation. 
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