Cognitive impacts of unilateral MR-guided focused ultrasound thalamotomy: a meta-analysis and a call for systematic neuropsychological assessment

J Neurosurg 142:1271–1279, 2025

A meta-analysis of unilateral MR-guided focused ultrasound thalamotomy for pharmacoresistant tremors shows no significant cognitive or emotional decline post-procedure. However, the limited studies and short-term assessments necessitate further research, especially on long-term effects and bilateral procedures.

Objective: Evaluate cognitive and emotional effects of unilateral MR-guided focused ultrasound (MRgFUS) thalamotomy in patients with pharmacoresistant tremors.

Methods: Conducted a meta-analysis following PRISMA guidelines, focusing on cognitive functions pre- and post-procedure.

Results: No significant deterioration in cognitive domains or emotional states post-procedure.

Sample: Included 112 patients, mostly with essential tremor and some with Parkinson’s disease.

Findings: MRgFUS thalamotomy is safe concerning cognitive and emotional outcomes, but more research is needed for long-term effects.

Limitations: Small number of studies, short-term assessments, and potential publication bias.

Conclusion: Encouraging findings on safety, but further comprehensive investigations are necessary.