Curing with Sound

Focused Ultrasound Foundation

Imagine harnessing the power of sound waves to heal the human body–this isn’t science fiction, it’s the reality of focused ultrasound technology. Join the conversation that explores the transformative power of this noninvasive therapy revolutionizing the treatment of nearly 180 diseases and medical conditions and giving hope to patients worldwide. Presented by the Focused Ultrasound Foundation.

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Top 10 Curing with Sound Episodes

Goodpods has curated a list of the 10 best Curing with Sound episodes, ranked by the number of listens and likes each episode have garnered from our listeners. If you are listening to Curing with Sound for the first time, there's no better place to start than with one of these standout episodes. If you are a fan of the show, vote for your favorite Curing with Sound episode by adding your comments to the episode page.

Ep30: The Power of Histotripsy: Revolutionizing Cancer Care with Eli Vlaisavljevich, PhD

Curing with Sound

05/27/25 • 24 min

In this episode of Curing with Sound, we speak with Eli Vlaisavljevich, PhD, an Associate Professor in the Department of Biomedical Engineering at Virginia Tech and a renowned innovator in histotripsy, the first completely noninvasive and nonthermal ablation method for treating cancer.

The conversation explores histotripsy's expanding applications across multiple conditions, from its FDA-approved use in liver tumors to promising research in pancreatic cancer, breast cancer, sarcomas, and more. Dr. Vlaisavljevich also discusses the innovative work his lab is conducting in veterinary medicine, treating dogs, cats, and horses with naturally occurring tumors, which in turn accelerates the development of human applications.

Discussion highlights:

Revolutionary Technology: Dr. Vlaisavljevich explains how histotripsy uses focused ultrasound pulses to generate cavitation bubbles that mechanically break down targeted tissue while preserving critical structures like blood vessels and nerves - a capability that sets it apart from traditional ablation methods.
Interdisciplinary Innovation: Discover the collaborative nature of focused ultrasound research, bringing together engineers, clinicians, and immunologists to develop customized devices for different clinical scenarios.
Next-Generation Approaches: Explore cutting-edge developments including nanoparticle-mediated histotripsy that can target specific cancer cells and combination therapies that enhance immune responses against metastatic disease.

EPISODE TRANSCRIPT
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Email [email protected] if you have questions about focused ultrasound or the Foundation.

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Ep27: How Histotripsy is Changing the Game: A Conversation with Zhen Xu, PhD

Curing with Sound

04/08/25 • 30 min

In this episode of Curing with Sound, Zhen Xu, PhD, the Li Ka Shing Endowed Professor of Biomedical Engineering at the University of Michigan, discusses histotripsy. Dr. Xu and her colleagues developed histotripsy, the first noninvasive, nonthermal ultrasound ablation technique that received FDA approval for liver tumor treatment in 2023. Her work has led to multiple clinical trials on histotripsy treatment for malignant and benign tumors.

Dr. Xu shares the 20-year journey from initial discovery to clinical application and highlights histotripsy's remarkable ability to mechanically break down targeted tissue without incisions or radiation. She also recounts inspiring patient stories from clinical trials, including patients who experienced no pain and returned to normal activities immediately after treatment.

Regulatory Approval: In October 2023, the FDA cleared HistoSonics’ novel therapy platform, EdisonTM, to treat liver tumors. EdisonTM uses histotripsy to noninvasively destroy liver tissue. This is the first time the use of histotripsy has earned regulatory approval worldwide.
The Science Behind Histotripsy: Dr. Xu explains how histotripsy uses focused ultrasound pulses to rapidly expand and collapse microbubbles that break down targeted cells with remarkable precision.
Future Directions: Dr. Xu envisions continued expansion of histotripsy applications over the next five years, including wider adoption for liver tumors, regulatory approvals for additional indications, and the development of new platforms for brain and shallow tumor treatments.

Histotripsy Lab: histotripsy.umich.edu
Connect on Linked In: Dr. Zhen Xu

Email [email protected] if you have questions about focused ultrasound or the Foundation.

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Ep0: Introduction to Curing with Sound

Curing with Sound

03/07/24 • 1 min

Welcome to Curing with Sound, a podcast presented by the Focused Ultrasound Foundation. In each episode, we'll explore the revolutionary therapy of focused ultrasound and how it's transforming the treatment of serious diseases and medical conditions such as Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, cancer, and more.
Join host Allison Preston-Smith as she engages in thought-provoking discussions with leading researchers, medical experts, influential advocates, and the patients who have experienced the life-changing benefits of focused ultrasound firsthand.
We'll also highlight the Foundation's steadfast commitment to advancing this technology and making it accessible to patients worldwide. You'll learn the latest advancements, clinical trials, and success stories, and gain a deeper understanding of how focused ultrasound works, its current applications, and its potential to alter the future of healthcare.
Whether you're a doctor seeking cutting-edge treatment options, someone facing a health challenge, or simply fascinated with the future of science and medicine, Curing with Sound is your gateway to the extraordinary world of focused ultrasound and how its poised to reshape the medical landscape.

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QUESTIONS?
Email [email protected] if you have a question or comment about the show, or if you would you like to connect about future guest appearances.

Email [email protected] if you have questions about focused ultrasound or the Foundation.

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Ep3: Nir Lipsman, MD, PhD | Pioneering Focused Ultrasound Applications for the Brain

Curing with Sound

04/11/24 • 29 min

In this episode of Curing with Sound, Dr. Neal Kassell, founder and chairman of the Focused Ultrasound Foundation, is joined by Dr. Nir Lipsman, a neurosurgeon and senior scientist at Sunnybrook Research Institute in Toronto, Canada. Dr. Kassell considers Dr. Lipsman to be one of the most influential clinicians in the development and adoption of focused ultrasound, having pioneered several world-first clinical trials for various brain disorders.
Throughout the conversation, Dr. Lipsman discusses the evolution of his focused ultrasound program at Sunnybrook, which has grown exponentially over the past decade. His team has treated over 500 patients across a wide range of indications, including essential tremor, Parkinson's disease, obsessive-compulsive disorder, major depression, and various types of brain tumors. One of the most exciting aspects of Dr. Lipsman's work is the use of focused ultrasound for opening the blood-brain barrier to enhance drug delivery.
He shares the groundbreaking results of a trial in which they were able to visually confirm the passage of a large molecule, trastuzumab, directly into the brain to target metastatic breast cancer tumors. This achievement holds immense promise for the treatment of numerous brain disorders, particularly in the neurodegenerative space, where focused ultrasound could potentially change the natural history of diseases like Parkinson's and Alzheimer's.
Dr. Lipsman emphasizes the importance of collaboration and parallel progress in advancing the field of focused ultrasound. He highlights the critical role of the Focused Ultrasound Foundation in supporting and fostering the growth of his program and the global focused ultrasound community.
Looking to the future, Dr. Lipsman envisions focused ultrasound becoming a routine, well-tolerated outpatient procedure that can not only treat but also prevent and diagnose brain disorders. He remains committed to building a strong, multidisciplinary team at Sunnybrook and working with the global community to bring the transformative potential of focused ultrasound to patients worldwide.
Harquail Centre for Neuromodulation

Show Transcript
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QUESTIONS?
Email [email protected] if you have a question or comment about the show, or if you would you like to connect about future guest appearances.

Email [email protected] if you have questions about focused ultrasound or the Foundation.

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Ep8: Dr. Stavros Zanos | The Promising Future of Focused Ultrasound Neuromodulation

Curing with Sound

06/20/24 • 20 min

In this episode, Dr. Stavros Zanos, a renowned researcher at the Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, discusses the potential of focused ultrasound neuromodulation in treating a wide range of cardiovascular and inflammatory diseases. Dr. Zanos explains how ultrasound activates neurons through mechanosensitive channels and shares the promising results of recent studies using neuromodulation to treat pulmonary arterial hypertension, reduce inflammatory markers, and potentially manage type 2 diabetes.
Learn about the importance of precision in ultrasound neuromodulation to ensure accurate targeting of specific areas in the abdomen. This episode offers a fascinating glimpse into the future of medicine, where focused ultrasound neuromodulation could significantly impact the treatment of millions of patients worldwide.

Show Transcript
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QUESTIONS?
Email [email protected] if you have a question or comment about the show, or if you would you like to connect about future guest appearances.

Email [email protected] if you have questions about focused ultrasound or the Foundation.

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Ep16: Treating Advanced Breast Cancer with Noninvasive Focused Ultrasound and Radiation: A Conversation with Dr. Gregory Czarnota

Curing with Sound

10/24/24 • 28 min

In recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Dr. Greg Czarnota, a senior scientist and radiation oncologist at Sunnybrook Research Institute in Toronto, discusses his innovative research using focused ultrasound in breast cancer treatment. Dr. Czarnota shares promising results from his phase I clinical trial using focused ultrasound-stimulated microbubbles to enhance radiotherapy in patients with advanced breast cancers.
Key points from the conversation include:

The origins of Dr. Czarnota's interest in focused ultrasound and its application in enhancing radiotherapy.
He shares details of the upcoming phase II clinical trials that will be enrolling patients with inoperable breast cancer.
Technical advances with the Arrayus focused ultrasound device could treat larger and more complex tumors.

Dr. Czarnota has also developed ultrasound imaging methods to detect cell death.
SHOW TRANSCRIPT
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QUESTIONS?
Email [email protected] if you have a question or comment about the show, or if you would you like to connect about future guest appearances.

Email [email protected] if you have questions about focused ultrasound or the Foundation.

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Ep2: Ken Dychtwald, PhD & Katsuto Shinohara, MD | Navigating a Prostate Cancer Diagnosis with Focused Ultrasound

Curing with Sound

03/28/24 • 28 min

In this episode of Curing with Sound, we speak with Dr. Ken Dychtwald, renowned gerontologist, best-selling author, and Founder of Age Wave, and Dr. Katsuto Shinohara, a leading urologic oncologist at UCSF.

Dr. Dychtwald, who has dedicated his life to studying gerontology and the aging population, shares his initial shock upon being diagnosed with prostate cancer. He emphasizes the importance of men openly discussing prostate health issues, as many of his friends had experienced similar diagnoses.

When presented with treatment options, Dr. Dychtwald was intrigued by the potential of high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU), a minimally invasive procedure he had previously advocated for in his work. Under the care of Dr. Shinohara at UCSF, Dr. Dychtwald underwent HIFU treatment, which precisely targets cancerous tissue while preserving surrounding healthy tissue.

The procedure itself was swift, lasting less than 15 minutes, and Dr. Dychtwald was able to return to work the same day. He expresses his gratitude for the availability of this advanced technology and encourages others to inquire about focused ultrasound as a potential treatment option.

Both Dr. Dychtwald and Dr. Shinohara express optimism about the advancements in medical technology and the potential for focused ultrasound to revolutionize the treatment of various cancers and other conditions, ultimately contributing to improved quality of life and longevity.

The patient story shared above is a personal account of an individual’s experience with focused ultrasound treatment. Please be aware that each patient’s situation is unique, and outcomes may vary. The information provided in this story should not be considered as medical advice or a guarantee of specific results. It is important to consult with a qualified healthcare provider to discuss your condition and determine the best treatment options for you. The Focused Ultrasound Foundation does not endorse any specific treatment or medical procedure and encourages all patients to seek professional medical guidance tailored to their individual needs.

Show Transcript
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QUESTIONS?
Email [email protected] if you have a question or comment about the show, or if you would you like to connect about future guest appearances.

Email [email protected] if you have questions about focused ultrasound or the Foundation.

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Ep5: Chuck Walker | A Couple’s Journey with Parkinson’s and Focused Ultrasound

Curing with Sound

05/09/24 • 24 min

Chuck Walker, an adventurer and business owner, began experiencing symptoms of Parkinson’s disease in 2013. In this episode, Chuck and his wife, Dr. Maureen Whelihan, share their inspiring journey with focused ultrasound treatment. Chuck shares how his Parkinson’s-related tremor affected his daily life, from running and riding motorcycles to giving presentations at work, and how medications fell short in managing his condition.
Chuck and Maureen discuss their journey in learning about and deciding to participate in a clinical trial for bilateral focused ultrasound treatment. The couple walks us through the treatment process, the remarkable results, and the immediate improvements in Chuck's symptoms. They also touch on the emotional impact of the treatment, with Chuck regaining his dignity and confidence in both his personal and professional life. They emphasize the importance of clinical trials in advancing treatments like focused ultrasound therapy and express gratitude for the organizations and donors making these innovations possible.
This inspiring episode showcases the power of focused ultrasound therapy in improving the lives of those living with Parkinson's disease, offering hope and encouragement to others who may qualify for this innovative treatment option for their symptoms.
The patient story shared above is a personal account of an individual’s experience with focused ultrasound treatment. Please be aware that each patient’s situation is unique, and outcomes may vary. The information provided in this story should not be considered as medical advice or a guarantee of specific results. It is important to consult with a qualified healthcare provider to discuss your condition and determine the best treatment options for you. The Focused Ultrasound Foundation does not endorse any specific treatment or medical procedure and encourages all patients to seek professional medical guidance tailored to their individual needs.

Show Transcript
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QUESTIONS?
Email [email protected] if you have a question or comment about the show, or if you would you like to connect about future guest appearances.

Email [email protected] if you have questions about focused ultrasound or the Foundation.

FUSF SOCIAL MEDIA

Ep18: Global Experts Reveal Latest Advances in Focused Ultrasound for Pancreatic Cancer Treatment

Curing with Sound

11/21/24 • 19 min

In this episode of Curing with Sound, three leading experts in focused ultrasound technology share their groundbreaking work in pancreatic cancer treatment. Dr. Feng Wu from Oxford University, Dr. Jae Young Lee from Seoul National University Hospital, and Dr. Joan Vidal-Jové from Barcelona's Comprehensive Tumor Center discuss their innovative approaches to treating one of medicine's most challenging cancers using noninvasive focused ultrasound techniques.
The episode provides insights into the evolution and future of focused ultrasound technology in cancer treatment. The experts detail how their work addresses key challenges in pancreatic cancer treatment, from enhancing drug delivery to activating immune responses.
Key Points:

Focused ultrasound technology shows particular promise in addressing the unique challenges of pancreatic cancer, including the ability to precisely target tumors while preserving surrounding critical structures.
Multiple treatment pathways are being explored simultaneously: thermal ablation (HIFU), mechanical stimulation for drug delivery enhancement, and histotripsy for immune system activation, offering new hope for patients with limited treatment options.
Dr. Lee shares exciting results from his phase II clinical trial combining focused ultrasound with chemotherapy, achieving a 63% objective response rate.
Dr. Wu discusses combining HIFU ablation with drug delivery to overcome limitations in treating pancreatic cancer.
Dr. Vidal-Jové reveals how histotripsy treatment has shown remarkable immune system activation effects.

SHOW TRANSCRIPT
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QUESTIONS?
Email [email protected] if you have a question or comment about the show, or if you would you like to connect about future guest appearances.

Email [email protected] if you have questions about focused ultrasound or the Foundation.

FUSF SOCIAL MEDIA

Ep1: Neal Kassell, MD | A Remarkable Journey from Unconventional Student to World-Renowned Neurosurgeon

Curing with Sound

03/14/24 • 23 min

In the premiere episode of "Curing with Sound," we spotlight Dr. Neal Kassell, the Founder and Chairman of the Focused Ultrasound Foundation. Despite being blind in one eye and not completing his undergraduate degree, Dr. Kassell's unwavering commitment to making a significant impact on the world propelled him to become a leading neurosurgeon and a pioneer for focused ultrasound therapy.
From a young age, Dr. Kassell was drawn to neurosurgery, gaining experience in a research lab at the age of 16 and later performing life-saving surgeries that would impact the lives of prominent figures and everyday individuals alike. His quest for better treatment options led him to focused ultrasound, a revolutionary noninvasive technology with the potential to transform treatment for a wide range of medical disorders, from neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s to cancer.
Dr. Kassell is now spearheading the global adoption of this cutting-edge therapy through the Focused Ultrasound Foundation, which he established in 2006, with the mission of redefining patient care and improving millions of lives worldwide. His dedication to advancing medical innovation is not just about a breakthrough technology; it's about the power of determination and the passion to help others, even in the face of personal challenges.
Tune in to hear Dr. Kassell’s inspiring story, learn about the future of medical treatment with focused ultrasound, and discover how his vision is bringing hope and healing to countless individuals around the world.
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QUESTIONS?
Email [email protected] if you have a question or comment about the show, or if you would you like to connect about future guest appearances.

Email [email protected] if you have questions about focused ultrasound or the Foundation.

FUSF SOCIAL MEDIA

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FAQ

How many episodes does Curing with Sound have?

Curing with Sound currently has 31 episodes available.

What topics does Curing with Sound cover?

The podcast is about Podcasts, Technology and Science.

What is the most popular episode on Curing with Sound?

The episode title 'Ep27: How Histotripsy is Changing the Game: A Conversation with Zhen Xu, PhD' is the most popular.

What is the average episode length on Curing with Sound?

The average episode length on Curing with Sound is 24 minutes.

How often are episodes of Curing with Sound released?

Episodes of Curing with Sound are typically released every 14 days.

When was the first episode of Curing with Sound?

The first episode of Curing with Sound was released on Mar 7, 2024.

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Curing with Sound

Focused Ultrasound Foundation

Top 10 Curing with Sound Episodes

FAQ

How many episodes does Curing with Sound have?

What topics does Curing with Sound cover?

What is the most popular episode on Curing with Sound?

What is the average episode length on Curing with Sound?

How often are episodes of Curing with Sound released?

When was the first episode of Curing with Sound?

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