Can magnetic resonance image-guided focused ultrasound surgery replace local oncology treatments? A review.

Magnetic resonance image-guided focused ultrasound surgery (MRgFUS) is an innovative technology in the new panorama of treatment using ultrasound. It combines two well-known and distinct methodologies: high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) and a magnetic resonance imaging system (MRI). This review on MRgFUS is focused on the technical aspects and the current clinical applications in oncology. More precisely, the advantages/disadvantages of MRgFUS compared to other local approaches such as surgery and radiotherapy are discussed in detail.