Focused Ultrasound, an Emerging Tool for Atherosclerosis Treatment: A Comprehensive Review

Area of Science:

• Medical Science
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Atherosclerosis poses a significant cardiovascular risk.
• Current treatments for atherosclerosis have limitations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the therapeutic potential of focused ultrasound (FUS) for atherosclerosis.
• To highlight high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) and low-intensity focused ultrasound (LIFU) applications.
• To summarize findings from preclinical and clinical studies.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature on HIFU and LIFU in atherosclerosis treatment.
• Analysis of studies involving animal models and human trials.
• Focus on FUS effects on arterial plaque and thrombolysis.

Main Results:

• HIFU demonstrates efficacy in reducing plaque burden and improving vascular function.
• LIFU promotes mild hyperthermia and tissue repair.
• FUS shows potential in carotid, coronary, and peripheral arteries.

Conclusions:

• Focused ultrasound is a promising noninvasive treatment for atherosclerosis.
• HIFU's penetration and atheroma disruption capabilities are key advantages.
• Further research is needed to optimize FUS parameters for clinical application.