Study Confirms Focused Ultrasound Provides Effective, Durable Relief for Patients with Parkinson's Disease

DELRAY BEACH, Fla. –July 15^th, 2026 - Delray Medical Center is celebrating a major milestone in Parkinson's disease research following the publication of a groundbreaking study in the July 2026 issue of The Lancet Neurology, one of the world's leading clinical journals in neurology. The study confirms that staged bilateral magnetic resonance-guided focused ultrasound (MRgFUS) is an effective treatment option for appropriately selected patients with Parkinson's disease, providing substantial and durable relief from debilitating motor symptoms.

The multicenter study, titled Safety and efficacy of staged, bilateral magnetic resonance-guided focused ultrasound pallidothalamic tractotomy for motor complications of Parkinson's disease, was co-authored by Delray Medical Center physicians Dr. Arif Dalvi, neurologist and director of the Comprehensive Movement Disorders Center at Palm Beach Neuroscience Institute, and Dr. Lloyd Zucker, neurosurgeon at Brain and Spine Center South Florida.

Delray Medical Center was the number one enrolling site in the nation for the clinical trial, helping advance research that ultimately contributed to U.S. Food and Drug Administration approval of staged bilateral focused ultrasound treatment for Parkinson's disease patients experiencing motor fluctuations and dyskinesia.

The study followed patients with advanced Parkinson's disease and found that focused ultrasound treatment significantly improved motor function and reduced complications associated with the disease. Researchers reported that benefits were apparent within one month of treatment and remained durable through at least 12 months following the second procedure.

"This publication represents years of dedication to improving the lives of patients living with Parkinson's disease," said Dr. Arif Dalvi. "Focused ultrasound offers a truly innovative, incisionless treatment option for patients whose symptoms are no longer adequately controlled with medication. We are proud to have helped lead this important research and contribute to advancing care for patients around the world."

Focused ultrasound uses targeted ultrasound waves, guided by MRI imaging, to precisely treat areas of the brain associated with Parkinson's disease symptoms without the need for surgical incisions or implanted hardware.

"This study highlights the tremendous potential of focused ultrasound technology and the importance of ongoing clinical research," said Dr. Lloyd Zucker. "Being able to offer patients a less invasive treatment option while helping define the future of Parkinson's care is incredibly rewarding. The publication of these findings in The Lancet Neurology supports the significance of the work being done here at Delray Medical Center."

The publication further reinforces Delray Medical Center's role as a leader in neuroscience research and innovation. Through its participation in national and international clinical trials, the hospital continues to help bring promising new therapies to patients with Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease and other neurological conditions.

"We are incredibly proud of Dr. Dalvi, Dr. Zucker and the entire research team for their contributions to this landmark study," said Heather Havericak, CEO of Delray Medical Center. "Serving as the leading enrollment site in the nation demonstrates our commitment to advancing medicine and expanding access to innovative treatments. This achievement reflects the expertise of our physicians and our dedication to providing patients with the most advanced care available."

The Lancet Neurology is internationally recognized for publishing influential research that shapes neurological clinical practice and advances the understanding and treatment of diseases affecting the brain and nervous system.

About Delray Medical Center

Delray Medical Center, part of the Palm Beach Health Network, is a 536-bed acute care hospital, spanning 30 acres, employing over 1,700 employees, 700 physicians, serving southern Palm Beach County for over 40 years. As both a community hospital and state-designated Level I Trauma Center Delray Medical Center offers several specialized services including state-of-the art cardiac and vascular facilities, orthopedics, neurosciences, emergency care, and weight-loss surgery.

Pinecrest Rehabilitation and Outpatient Hospital at Delray Medical Center is the only state designated brain and spinal cord injury rehabilitation program in the county by the State of Florida. Delray Medical Center is also home to Fair Oaks Pavilion, a 66-bed adult psychiatry unit. For more information about our services, visit our website at www.palmbeachhealthnetwork.com.