Focused Ultrasound in Small-Bore MRI Systems

The RK-300 is an MRI-compatible preclinical FUS system designed specifically for small-bore MRI systems. It enables researchers to investigate the biomedical applications of focused ultrasound, a field receiving global interest and research support.
The RK-300 replicates all the features and capabilities of clinical FUS systems, making it an ideal translational research device.
The RK-300 is compatible with the Bruker BioSpec series of MR scanners, up to 11.7 T field strength.

Key Features

  • Turnkey System: The RK-300 is ready for brain ultrasound studies right out of the box. The system mounts directly to a Biospec MRI bed.
  • In-bore transducer motion: Piezoceramic motors integrated into the RK-300 move the ultrasound transducer in the horizontal plane while in the MRI bore.
  • Integration with Paravision 360: The RK-300 connects to the Bruker console computer through an ethernet connection, enabling transfer of DICOM images for planning, as well as real-time transfer of T1-Flash images for PRF-shift MR thermometry. 
  • Acoustic feedback: Real-time acoustic emissions monitoring provides visual feedback on the progress of ultrasound experiments. 
  • Flexible acoustic parameters: Ultrasound exposures can be pulsed or continuous, with independent control of pressure at each location. The software enables targeting of single, regional, or whole brain coverage. Aureus is written in Python and the source code is available to customers upon request.
  • Flexible targeting: The RK-300 is capable of single spot, regional or whole brain targeting.
  • Intuitive interface: The software interface is intuitive and powerful, without the need for ultrasound expertise. Full control over ultrasound parameters is available, enabling a wide range of studies.
  • Straightforward installation: The RK-300 can be efficiently installed and removed from a preclinical MRI minimizing setup times for studies and enabling the use of the system in a multi-user core. No special modification or construction is required to integrate the RK-300 into a preclinical MRI.
  • Training & support: FUS Instruments offers onsite installation and training with every system, and continues to provide technical and scientific support throughout the warranty period.

Specifications

Parameter Value
X range Y range Z range 20 mm, 15 mm, 5 mm (Manual)
Maximum speed (XY) 7.5 mm/s
Resolution (XY) 0.1 mm
Power output (max) 10 W (electrical)

Transducer frequencies

Harmonic frequencies

Transducer diameter

Transducer focal length

1.20, 1.65 MHz

3.60, 4.95 MHz

25 mm

20 mm
Outer diameter

70 mm
Output modes Continuous, burst, neuromodulation, BBB opening
Applications Thermal (hyperthermia, ablation), blood-brain barrier opening, neuromodulation, sonodynamic therapy

In-House Custom-Built Calibrated Transducers (TX-300)

When your research demands a unique approach, our engineering team is ready to build it.
All transducers manufactured by FUS Instruments undergo rigorous calibration and testing. Transducers are leak tested and impedance matched. They then undergo calibration at the focus in water with a calibrated needle hydrophone to measure the spatial dimensions of the pressure focus, and to calibrate the voltage to pressure relationship. Radiation force measurements are obtained for each transducer to quantify the transducer efficiency.

  • Anodized Aluminium, ø38mm, height 50 mm

  • Waterproof up to 0.5 m

  • Easy-to-mount, magnetic south pole facing end cap

  • Side exiting 0.3 m × 50 Ohm coaxial cables

  • Transducer cable with SMA Male Plug

  • Hydrophone cable with BNC Male Plug

  • RF Connectors are not submersible

Housing Specifications

  • 3D-printed plastic encclosure, waterproof up to 0.5 m
  • Easy-to-mount within the RK-300, press-fit design
  • Side exiting 0.1 m × 50 Ohm coaxial cables
  • Transducer cable with non-magnetic MCX Male Plug
  • Hydrophone cable with non-magnetic MCX Male Plug
  • RF Connectors are submersible

Centrally located hydrophones enable passive cavitation detection.

An RF impedance matching network to 50 Ohm is supplied with each transducer and tuned to the fundamental resonant frequency. An optional third harmonic RF impedance matching network allows operation around three (3) times the fundamental frequency. The matching networks include BNC and SMA connectors in an aluminum, RF shielded enclosure.

Model Transducer Fo FWHM Lateral FWHM Axial Hydrophone Aperture Hydrophone F0
TX-300-1650 1.65 MHz 1.0 mm 6.0 mm ø6 mm 0.825 MHz
TX-300-1200 1.20 MHz 1.3 mm 9.1 mm ø6 mm 0.600 MHz

Ultrasound applications of the TX-300 transducer series include, but are not limited to, increasing the permeability of the blood-brain barrier, neuromodulation, sonodynamic therapy, and thermal ablation. 

Spherically focused TX-300 transducers have an f-number of 0.8 and ø25 mm aperture.

Accessories

RF Coil

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Water Degasser

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Nanobubbles

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Ready to push the boundaries of what’s possible?

Our team of experts is ready to help you configure the perfect FUS setup for your specific research goals. Let’s build the future of non-invasive medicine together.