Our Story
Overview
Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is a noninvasive procedure used as a treatment for Major Depressive Disorder. TMS helps activate nerve cells in the areas of the brain associated with mood regulation. The induced activity stimulates the release of neurotransmitters, which can help relieve symptoms of depression and improve mood. Individuals who have found drug therapy and psychotherapy to be ineffective may be appropriate candidates for TMS.
How TMS Works
Magnetic pulses are delivered to the region of the brain associated with mood regulation, the prefrontal cortex. The pulses are of the same nature and magnitude as an MRI magnet. The magnetic stimulation induces activity in the brain region directly under the coil. When these pulses are delivered repeatedly over an extended period of time, the treatment can help relieve the symptoms of Major Depressive Disorder. No anesthesia is required, and patients can resume daily activities immediately after a session.
What to Expect
In our office, we have two rooms designated for TMS. When a patient comes in for a session, they sit in a reclining chair designed for TMS treatment. An insulated electromagnetic coil is placed on the side of the patient’s head. Magnetic pulses are delivered through the coil. The pulses make a clicking sound. Every patient describes the sensation differently. To many, it feels like a tapping on the scalp.
During the first treatment, the physician will take measurements to determine the correct placement of the coil. Then the physician will determine the patient’s motor threshold (MT). The MT is like a magnetic “dose.” It is the lowest amount of magnetic energy required to make the patient’s fingers twitch. Everyone’s “dose” is different. The settings that are found during the first treatment will be used for all following treatments. Once all of the appropriate measurements have been made, the patient will sit through their first treatment. In total, the first appointment takes 1-2 hours.
Subsequent treatments are between 45 and 50 minutes long, with a few exceptions. Treatments are administered every weekday for 7-8 weeks. The clinic will coordinate with the patient to find daily appointment times that work with the patient’s schedule. Daily treatments will be administered by a trained and certified TMS technician. The tech will be in the room for the duration of each treatment. If necessary, the treatment can be stopped.
Most patients are able to tolerate TMS with minimal side effects. TMS is precise and targeted, so systemic side effects are rare. Common side effects include headaches, topical discomfort at the treatment location, and the twitching of face muscles during treatment. These side effects generally decrease after a week or two in treatment.
Please note that any metal implants may be a contraindication for TMS treatments. This may include:
Aneurysm clips or coils
Stents in the neck or brain
Deep brain stimulators
Electrodes to monitor brain activity
Metallic implants in ears or eyes
Shrapnel or bullet fragments in or near head
Facial tattoos with metallic or magnetic-sensitive ink
Other metal devices or object implanted in or near the head
