Design, Development, and Operation of a Low-Intensity Focused Ultrasound Pulsation (LIFUP) System for Clinical Use

Noninvasive low-intensity focused ultrasound pulsation (LIFUP) neuromodulation provides a unique approach to both investigating and treating the brain. This work describes a well-calibrated, simple-to-use ultrasound stimulation system for neuromodulation studies. It provides a single-element 650-kHz transducer design and a straightforward control mechanism, with extensive calibration and internal electronic monitoring to prevent unwanted over or under treatment. One goal of this approach is to relieve researchers of many of the details associated with developing their own exposure equipment. A unique transducer positioning system and distinctive MRI fiducial targets simplify alignment and targeting. The system design, control software, calibration, and alignment techniques are described in detail. Examples of transducer targeting and neurostimulation using the system are provided.