Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is a non-invasive procedure that uses magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in the brain to improve symptoms of depression. TMS is usually used when other treatments for depression have not been effective.
Transcranial magnetic
stimulation (TMS) is a type of brain stimulation therapy. EMT is an FDA-approved treatment technique for those struggling with major depressive disorder (MDD).One machine uses targeted magnetic pulses to stimulate the prefrontal cortex region of the brain, which is underactive in patients suffering from depression. More moderate than other options, the risk of side effects from the use of EMT is lower than with electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) and pharmacotherapy. Research has shown that approximately 1 in 2 patients will experience a significant reduction in depressive symptoms after using EMT, and 1 in 3 people will achieve complete remission of major depressive disorder (MDD).
TMS therapy
is offered at our Oconomowoc Silver Lake outpatient center.If you have questions related to EMT therapy, please contact our admissions department at Oconomowoc (262-646-441). Magnetic pulses induce small electrical currents that change the firing patterns of neurons, altering dysfunctional brain patterns associated with depression. During the first EMT session, several measurements are made to ensure that the EMT coil is correctly positioned over the patient's head. If you don't respond to the first course of treatment for TMS, your doctor may recommend another type of TMS.
In these cases, TMS could be used as an alternative treatment or to increase antidepressant medications or psychotherapy. While RTMS is a safe procedure, it is important to note that because it is a new treatment, there may be unpredictable risks that are not currently recognized. Patients who have not achieved an adequate response to antidepressants, or who are unable to tolerate medications, may consider RTMS therapy. The EMTR procedure is used to create changes in the brain centers that control mood regulation and depression, leading to relief of symptoms of depression in sufferers.
However, most patients with TMS feel better for many months after discontinuation of treatment, and the average duration of response is just over a year. TMS has shown great promise for treating the depressed patient, but it is also being studied for the possible treatment of other conditions, such as vascular depression after a stroke. Because depression is thought to be the result of an imbalance of these chemicals in the brain, TMS can restore that balance and thus relieve depression. In simple terms, TMS stimulates specific areas of the brain to provide relief and break the cycle of depression.
EMT cannot be given to patients who have metal devices implanted in or around the head (such as aneurysm clips or coils and electrodes that control brain activity) or who have electrical implants (such as pacemakers and ICDs). In general, the side effects of EMT treatment are few and of low severity compared to the commonly reported side effects of antidepressant medications. This has less to do with actual treatment and more to do with getting your insurance company approved for EMT. The RTM machine produces a loud noise, and because of this, the patient is given earplugs to wear during treatment.
