Medical devices, systems, and methods for achieving renal neuromodulation by extracorporeal application of energy are disclosed herein. One aspect of the present disclosure is directed to apparatuses, systems, and methods that incorporate a device that employs high-intensity focused ultrasound. The high-intensity focused ultrasound may be used for application of energy to modulate neural fibers that contribute to renal function, or to vascular structures that feed or perfuse the neural fibers. The ultrasound transducer for delivering the energy may be located remotely from the desired treatment area and/or may be located outside the patients body. In particular embodiments, an ultrasound transducer may be coupled to a targeting system that may be extracorporeal or intravascular.
