Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS)
There is an exciting new treatment option for those suffering from clinical depression. Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) may provide a rapid and safe way to treat depression in patients who are unresponsive to or uninterested in other types of currently approved treatments.
This treatment has been the subject of several studies in which it has shown promise in treating some cases of clinical depression. It is undetermined at this time as to who will respond to rTMS.
What is rTMS?
Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation, or rTMS is the repetitive stimulation of neurons in the cortex of the brain by the application of a magnetic field. Unlike ECT, rTMS does not require anesthesia and is administered in a clinical setting. rTMS is non-invasive. Treatments are typically given daily on weekdays for a minimum of two weeks. Initial treatment involves ten treatment sessions lasting approximately 30 minutes.
Most patients find these treatments very tolerable and concentrate on relaxing by listening to music or reading during the process. The environment is maintained as stress free as possible.
Our faculty is available for consultation or an opinion to determine if the rTMS treatments would be useful for your patient.
Before the rTMS Treatment
A physician to patient consultation is conducted prior to treatment. Patients are asked to complete a depression scale before the first treatment and at intervals thereafter.
Through out the course of treatments physicians are readily available to patients.
rTMS Treatments
- rTMS is administered by a trained, certified member of our nursing staff under the supervision of a physician. The nurse remains with the patient throughout the entire treatment.
- Earplugs are provided to reduce the effects of noise from the device.
- A plastic-encased magnetic coil is placed on the top of the patient's head. The magnetic field is created as the current flows though the coil to start a flow of current in the brain.
- Clicking noises occur as parameters are obtained to stimulate the key regions in the brain involved in depression.
- Once parameters are obtained, nearby areas of the brain will be stimulated in the same way, but as a treatment for depression.
After the rTMS Treatment
At the end of the ten treatments an evaluation is conducted to determine the patient's response to the treatment.
This information, as well as any recommendations we may have, will be shared with the referring physician. Maintenance treatments are available if determined necessary.
Possible Side-Effects
Side-effects from rTMS treatments are generally very minimal. The most common side-effects is a headache of mild intensity.
Those individuals prone to migraine headaches may experience more intense headaches or migranes.
Other side-effects that may occur include:
- Eye muscle twitching
- Pain at the site
- Lightheadedness
- Increased fatigue
- Increased ringing in the ear for those who already have this condition
For further information please contact:
Washington University School of Medicine
Department of Psychiatry
Center for Mood Disorders
Campus Box 8134
660 S. Euclid Ave.
St. Louis, MO 63110