Sound waves vs. Parkinson's: new ultrasound treatment shows promise

NCT ID NCT03454425

Completed Disease control Sponsor: InSightec Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tested a device called ExAblate that uses focused ultrasound to create a tiny lesion in the brain area causing Parkinson's motor problems. 36 participants were randomly assigned to receive the real treatment or a sham (fake) procedure. The goal was to see if the treatment safely improves movement on the more affected side of the body.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: ExAblate subthalamotomy (focused ultrasound device)
What this could lead to: If it works, this could offer a non-invasive option to reduce Parkinson's motor symptoms without surgery or implants.
What could go wrong: This is a small, early-stage trial with only 36 participants. The sham control may reveal limited benefit, and risks include side effects from brain lesioning.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Parkinson disease

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

PARKINSON DISEASE

Contacts and locations

Locations

Hospital Universitario HM Puerta Del Sur. CINAC

Móstoles, Madrid, 28938, Spain

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