Jackie Todd, a longtime resident of East Tennessee, has lived with severe tremors for over 40 years. The constant shaking limited his ability to work, socialize and even enjoy simple meals. “I’ve just become a homebody,” Todd said, describing how the condition forced him to stay inside and avoid public places.
That changed when he underwent a cutting‑edge focused ultrasound treatment at Vanderbilt University Medical Center. The procedure, performed by neurologist Dr. Dario Englot and his team, uses magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to guide high‑frequency sound waves to a precise area of the brain that controls tremor, all without a single incision.
How the treatment works
During the session, a numbing agent is applied to Todd’s scalp and a lightweight headframe is fitted to keep his head perfectly still while he lies inside the MRI scanner. While awake, he can communicate with the medical team throughout the process. When the targeted brain region receives the focused sound waves—a step Dr. Englot calls a “sonication”—the team immediately tests Todd’s tremor to assess improvement and monitor for side effects.
“Do a sonication, which is when we do the treatment, bring you out, test your tremor, make sure we’re getting good benefits, make sure we’re not getting any side effects,” Englot explained to Todd before the procedure.
Results on both sides
Todd’s right side was treated about nine months ago, and he recently returned for treatment of his left side. The results were evident almost immediately. Before the procedure, he completed a simple spiral‑drawing test, trying to keep a marker within the lines. After the sonication, the comparison showed a clear improvement.
“I noticed a lot of difference but not as much as it was on my right side,” Todd said of the left‑side treatment. He added, “Feel real good,” reflecting his relief at the progress.
What patients can expect
Dr. Englot emphasizes that the treatment is not a cure, but it aims to substantially reduce tremor severity and enhance quality of life. “We always tell patients the treatment is not a cure,” he said. “The goal is to substantially reduce their tremor and improve their quality of life.”
For Todd, the impact goes beyond a cleaner spiral on paper. He now feels comfortable dining out without worrying about stares or comments. “I can go into restaurants and eat without people staring at me and pointing,” he said. “It has changed my life.”
Looking ahead
Focused ultrasound is gaining attention as a non‑invasive alternative to traditional brain surgery for tremor disorders such as essential tremor and Parkinson’s disease. Vanderbilt’s program continues to refine the technique, offering hope to many patients who have exhausted medication options.
Residents of East Tennessee and the broader state can learn more about the procedure by contacting Vanderbilt University Medical Center or visiting their website for detailed information.
Original reporting: NewsChannel 5 WTVF (Scripps) – local — read the source article.
