Insightec has announced that its transcranial magnetic resonance (MR)-guided focused ultrasound (MRgFUS) for the treatment of essential tremor (ET) has received NUB status 1 in Germany.

The decision by the German Institute for Hospital Remuneration allows substantial access to focused ultrasound for those suffering from movement disorders.

Insightec said the NUB status 1 allows approved hospitals to negotiate additional payments within the country’s national reimbursement system, for MRgFUS treatments.

The Federal Joint Committee (G-BA) had previously recognised MRgFUS therapy for essential tremor treatment in 2021.

With immediate effect, the new status enables hospitals to secure the financial sustainability of providing this therapy.

Transcranial MRgFUS is an incision-less surgical procedure designed for patients with drug-resistant essential tremors.

University Hospital UKSH in Kiel neurosurgeon Dr Helmers said: “Ultrasound technology delivers targeted therapy to ablate the brain tissue that causes abnormal movements.

“Guided by MRI to identify the specific area of the brain, neurosurgeons benefit from real-time monitoring during the procedure.”

Insightec Europe vice-president Giuseppe Carbone said: “This is a momentous achievement for Insightec and, most importantly, for all the eligible German patients who, until now, had limited access to focused ultrasound treatment for essential tremor.

“We are proud to bring our innovative solution to Germany and join the efforts of the global community working toward better patient outcomes.”

Insightec value and access strategy global head Aymeric Leruste emphasises the key role played by the NUB decision in obtaining the financial viability of providing these treatments within the healthcare system.

Last year, Insightec’s MRgFUS Exablate Neuro platform secured an additional CE mark to market its essential tremor treatment in the European Economic Area, Turkey, and the UK.