Frequency Swept to Optimize Focalization at the Substantia Nigra in a Rat Head Model using a Semi-Spherical Ultrasound Transducer

2019 
The use of focused ultrasound in the head has been demonstrated to be advantageous for the disruption of the blood-brain barrier (BBB) in a reversible way. With models using the finite element method, it is possible to made approximations of the physical phenomenon to study separately, and together, the parameters affecting the therapy with the objective of saving time and economical sources during the investigation. In this paper, it presented a geometry of focused ultrasound transducer with a parametric analysis to find an effective configuration that can cross the BBB transcranially with reduced effects at the cranium, and that is able to completely radiate the substantia nigra. The results indicate that for a rat head, the frequency to obtain a narrow focus with larger amplitude, enough to cover the substantia nigra, was 500 kHz. The penetration depth increases for lower frequencies, but the result is a wider focus that could damage other brain zones.
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