TecSalud: Pioneer in noninvasive therapy for tremors and Parkinson’s

TecSalud reached a milestone in 2026 by introducing Focused Ultrasound (FUS) for the treatment of Parkinson’s disease and essential tremor.

This milestone was achieved following the completion of the first procedures, establishing the institution as the first Academic Health Center in the country to offer this minimally invasive therapy.

According to Dr. Héctor Ramón Martínez, Parkinson’s disease and essential tremor are neurological conditions that share a common feature: disabling tremors.

“Both significantly affect quality of life, but with the advent of FUS, something that once seemed far off—such as correcting tremors—is now possible,” he noted.

For many patients, this represents much more than a medical breakthrough. It offers the chance to regain their independence and resume daily activities that, over time, had become increasingly difficult.

Noninvasive therapy for treating tremors

FUS is a noninvasive technology designed to reduce tremors associated with Parkinson’s disease and essential tremor by applying sound waves to specific regions of the brain.

Dr. José Antonio Figueroa, Deputy Director of the Institute of Neurology and Neurosurgery, explained that these waves are directed toward the areas responsible for causing the tremor.

“When they reach a certain temperature, the waves have an effect on the neurons associated with these symptoms, allowing them to be significantly reduced or even eliminated,” he said.

He noted that the main advantages of this technology are that it does not require surgery, does not use radiation, and allows the patient to recover almost immediately.

He also added that it is a relatively quick procedure, since each application of ultrasound lasts only a few seconds.

A process supported by a comprehensive evaluation

Dr. Azalea Garza Báez, a neuroradiology specialist, explained that before receiving treatment, each patient undergoes a thorough evaluation process to determine whether they are a candidate for the therapy.

“The evaluation combines neurological and radiological studies that allow us to analyze each case with precision,” she noted.

Once the candidacy is confirmed, preparations begin that involve a large group of specialists to ensure that the procedure is carried out safely.

“The departments of neurology, neurosurgery, and neuroradiology work together in a coordinated manner throughout all stages of the process,” she said.

This specialist emphasized that this is a comprehensive care approach in which patients are constantly monitored and supported to ensure their wellbeing.

From diagnosis to recovery

Dr. Héctor Ramón Martínez explained that once the day of the procedure arrives, the patient’s process begins with handwriting and drawing tests that will serve as a baseline for comparing subsequent results.

“Another very important step is shaving the head as this prevents any interference with the ultrasound waves,” he mentioned.

He also explained that a cranial frame is placed to stabilize the head and allow for precise targeting of the area of the brain that will receive treatment.

“Next, the patient enters the MRI room, and we perform a detailed radiological planning session to confirm the exact location of the ultrasound emitters,” he said.

He noted that, depending on each case, multiple exposures may be performed, and once the procedure is complete, the patient is taken to the recovery room, a stage that usually lasts a few minutes.

Eighteen years waiting for an alternative

Among the first people to undergo the procedure is María Elena Cisneros, who has lived with essential tremor for nearly 18 years.

“There was a time when I wrote very well and did my job without any trouble. But as the years went by, the tremors got worse, and it became increasingly difficult to perform simple tasks,” she said.

She explained that her physical limitations came to affect various aspects of her daily life, from basic activities such as eating to her social relationships.

“I started going out less because I felt embarrassed about spilling things or making a mess in front of other people. Little by little, I narrowed my social circle,” she said.

Today, after being part of the first group of patients treated with FUS, María Elena has become the face of a new treatment option for those who have lived with this condition for years.

“What I missed most was doing simple things.” – María Elena Cisneros

Regaining the ability to be present 

Román Pérez, who was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease about three years ago, is also part of this first group of patients treated with Focused Ultrasound. 

“The first symptoms appeared unexpectedly, and gradually my right hand began to shake more. I noticed it especially when I went out to eat,” he said.

Like María Elena, he explained that the involuntary movements began to affect his emotional state and his daily life.

“What I want most is to be there for my family again when they need me most and to appreciate all those things I used to do without even thinking about them,” he said.

Today, after successfully undergoing the procedure, Román is among the first patients in Mexico to have access to this innovative treatment option.

The first day of FUS procedures concluded with favorable results, marking a new chapter for neurology in Mexicoand cementing TecSalud’s position as a pioneer and leader in advanced healthcare. 

“It also represents a strengthening of TecSalud’s care model, which integrates innovation, research, and clinical practice to provide patients with access to cutting-edge treatments,” said Dr. Héctor Ramón Martínez.

However, beyond the scientific advances, the true impact of Focused Ultrasound is reflected in the stories of those who, after years of living with tremors, have regained the ability to perform simple activities.

“Behind every procedure lies the opportunity to restore autonomy, confidence, and quality of life to those whose daily routines have been transformed by the disease,” concluded Dr. Héctor Ramón.

 

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