A new non-invasive treatment for Parkinson's disease, known as focused ultrasound, is now available in Australia. The treatment, which uses high-frequency sound waves to target and destroy brain tissue causing tremors, received approval from the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) in late 2025.
The procedure, called Exablate Neuro, is performed at St Vincent's Hospital in Melbourne. It is designed for patients with advanced Parkinson's who have not responded adequately to medication. Unlike traditional deep brain stimulation, it does not require drilling into the skull or implanting electrodes.
Clinical trials have shown the treatment can significantly reduce tremors on one side of the body. However, it is not a cure for Parkinson's disease and is currently only suitable for a specific subset of patients. Specialists emphasize that patient selection is critical for the treatment's success.
The availability marks Australia's entry into using this technology for movement disorders, following its earlier use for essential tremor. Patients must be referred by a neurologist for assessment to determine their eligibility for the procedure.
