TMS Therapy.

What is TMS.

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) is a technological breakthrough in the treatment of Major Depression. Cleared for use by the FDA in October 2008, TMS is a non-invasive, non-systemic treatment that utilizes MRI strength magnetic pulses to stimulate areas of the brain known to be hypoactive in patients with depression. TMS is a proven and highly successful treatment for Major Depressive Disorder in adult patients who have failed to receive satisfactory improvement from prior antidepressant medication.

TMS is an effective alternative treatment for Major Depressive Disorder and because TMS is non-systemic (not absorbed throughout the body as medications are), patients may resume their normal daily activity after treatments.

How it works.

During an TMS session, an electromagnetic coil is placed against your scalp near your forehead. The electromagnet painlessly delivers a magnetic pulse that stimulates nerve cells in the region of your brain involved in mood control and depression. It's thought to activate regions of the brain that have decreased activity in depression.

Since no anesthesia or sedation is needed, patients are awake and alert during the treatment. Each TMS treatment session lasts between 20 to 30 minutes and are typically given 5 days a week for 6 weeks, followed by a 2-3 week taper period.

Initial Treatment

Your doctor will need to identify the specific places to put the magnets on your head and the best dose of magnetic energy for you. First appointments typically lasts about 60 minutes.

Most likely, during your first appointment:

  • Your treatment room will include a reclining chair, and you will be given earplugs to wear during the procedure.

  • An electromagnetic coil will be placed against your head and switched off and on repeatedly to produce stimulating pulses. This results in a tapping or clicking sound that usually lasts for a few seconds, followed by a pause. You'll also feel a tapping sensation on your forehead. This part of the process is called mapping.

  • Your doctor will determine the amount of magnetic energy needed by increasing the magnetic dose until your fingers or hands twitch. Known as your motor threshold, this is used as a reference point in determining the right dose for you. During the course of treatment, the amount of stimulation can be changed, depending on your symptoms and side effects.

During Treatment

Once the coil placement and dose are identified, you're ready to begin. Here's what to expect during each treatment:

  • You'll sit in a comfortable chair, wearing ear plugs, with the magnetic coil placed against your head.

  • When the machine is turned on, you'll hear clicking sounds and feel tapping on your forehead.

  • The procedure will last about 40 minutes, and you'll remain awake and alert. You may feel some scalp discomfort during the treatment and for a short time afterward.