Study Highlights Novel Non-Invasive Brain Surgery for Lasting Relief from Severe Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
When traditional non-invasive treatments for psychiatric diseases fail, clinicians are often forced to consider brain surgery. However, brain surgery for psychiatric diseases has long been stigmatized due to the infamous history of lobotomy. Thankfully, recent advancements in brain surgery are changing this narrative.
A novel non-invasive bilateral capsulotomy, known as magnetic resonance-guided focused ultrasound (MRgFUS) capsulotomy, has been gaining attention for its potential in treating treatment-resistant or refractory obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Patients with refractory OCD experience a debilitating degree of repetitive behaviors and thoughts that they are unable to control, significantly impacting their quality of life.
A recent study by a group of researchers from South Korea found that MRgFUS capsulotomy is an efficacious and safe treatment option for refractory OCD, with high patient satisfaction even at 10 years after treatment. The study, published in Molecular Psychiatry, followed 10 years of patients with refractory OCD who underwent MRgFUS capsulotomy and found that it is a lasting and effective treatment option.
This study achieved multiple milestones in OCD research, offering hope to many patients experiencing refractory OCD. According to Dr. Jin Woo Chang, lead researcher, “These studies involve the world’s first clinical trial for OCD with MRgFUS. The current study is also the world’s first long-term follow-up study for OCD after treatment.”
The potential application of MRgFUS capsulotomy may not be limited to refractory OCD. Dr. Chang notes, “The results from our clinical trial also imply the potential role of MRgFUS in managing other common psychiatric diseases, such as refractory depression, due to its simplicity and safety.”
With the clinical application of MRgFUS capsulotomy on the horizon, Dr. Chang concludes, “With the rapid development of new surgical techniques like MRgFUS, it is possible to cure psychiatric diseases without additional complications. I am convinced this new technology will offer a new lease of life for those suffering and struggling from serious psychiatric problems.”
