Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is a procedure that uses magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in the brain to improve symptoms of major depression. It's called a "noninvasive" procedure because it's done without using surgery or cutting the skin. Approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), TMS usually is used only when other depression treatments haven't been effective.
During an rTMS session for depression, an electromagnetic coil is placed against the scalp of your head. This coil delivers magnetic pulses that stimulate 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 during depression.
TMS therapy sessions last between 6 and 20 minutes. Depending on the treatment protocol, treatment will last for 2 to 5 weeks with daily treatments, which vary in number according to treatment plan.
You are seated in a comfortable chair with earplugs to reduce the tap-tap sound of the treatment from the TMS device. Once comfortable, a certified technician will position a TMS device over your head.
Repetitive TMS is a noninvasive form of brain stimulation. Unlike vagus nerve stimulation or deep brain stimulation, rTMS does not require surgery or implanting electrodes. And, unlike electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), rTMS doesn't cause seizures or memory loss. It also doesn't require the use of anesthesia, which puts people in a sleep-like state.
Generally, rTMS is considered safe and well-tolerated. However, it can cause some side effects.
Side effects are generally mild to moderate and improve shortly after a session. Side effects decrease over time with more sessions.
Side effects may include:
Your healthcare provider can adjust the level of stimulation to reduce symptoms. Or your provider may recommend that you take a pain medicine available without a prescription before the procedure. Fewer than 5% of patients discontinued treatment with Magstim TMS Therapy due to adverse events.
Serious side effects are rare but may include: