The Effects of Ultrasound on Central Nervous System

Focused ultrasound (FUS) at low intensities is a form of neuromodulation with high spatial resolution that can be applied invasively or non-invasively using acoustic energy to affect neuronal activity. In this study the investigators intended to use specific patient populations to investigate the effects of FUS on different areas of the central nervous system (CNS). Each of our patients groups is undergoing a unique procedure at University of Virginia that will provide us different insights into the CNS. (1) Patients receiving an awake or asleep craniotomy for brain tumors and/or epilepsy will undergo a brain mapping procedure using electrical stimulation as a part of their normal care. The research procedures will duplicate this mapping with an invasive FUS mapping. (2) Patients undergoing long term monitoring for epilepsy will receive a non-invasive form of FUS stimulation which will be measured by their EEG cap and intracranial electrodes which are a part of their normal care. (3) Patients undergoing high intensity FUS treatment for tremor will be asked to wear a research provided EEG cap while undergoing a non-invasive low intensity FUS research procedure and changes in their tremor will be monitored. (4) Patients undergoing Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) treatment for tremor will receive a non-invasive FUS stimulation observed through their newly implanted electrode. (5) Patients receiving a spinal surgery will undergo a spinal stimulation using electrical stimulation as a part of their normal care. The research procedures will duplicate this with an invasive FUS stimulation.