Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS)

Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is a noninvasive procedure that uses magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in the brain to improve symptoms of depression. TMS is typically used when other depression treatments haven't been effective.

Overview

Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is a method in which a changing magnetic field is used to cause electric current at a specific area of the brain through electromagnetic induction. This procedure is painless, and the patient remains conscious and alert during the procedure. TMS is a form of neuromodulation, which is a process of modulating nerve activity through targeted delivery of a stimulus, such as electrical stimulation or chemical agents, to specific neurological sites in the body.

Procedure

The TMS procedure involves delivering repetitive magnetic pulses, so it's also called repetitive TMS or rTMS. The procedure is performed by a TMS technician, who places a magnetic coil against the patient's scalp. The coil generates brief magnetic pulses, which pass easily and painlessly through the skull and into the brain. The pulses generated are of the same type and strength as those generated by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) machines.

Applications

The most common use of TMS is in the treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD). TMS is also used in the treatment of anxiety disorder, PTSD, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and migraine. It is also being studied as a treatment for bipolar disorder, psychotic disorders, stroke rehabilitation, and drug addiction.

Side Effects

Common side effects of TMS include headache, scalp discomfort at the treatment site, lightheadedness and tingling or spasms of facial muscles. Serious side effects are rare and include seizures and mania (if you have bipolar disorder).

See Also

• Electroconvulsive therapy
• Deep brain stimulation
• Vagus nerve stimulation
• Magnetic seizure therapy