Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation
Depression is a brain disorder that affects one out of every seven people. While symptoms for many patients are alleviated with traditional treatments, such as medication or talk therapy, some people do not improve even after trying many different therapies. Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) is a new, non-invasive therapy that might be able to offer these patients relief from depression.
rTMS uses magnetic energy to stimulate (or "modulate") the brain, completely non-invasively. Studies have shown benefits of rTMS in treating depression, particularly for patients who are unable or unwilling to tolerate medications or who are suffering from depression that does not respond to more common forms of treatment. rTMS is a relatively new form of brain stimulation, also known as “neuromodulation,” that has been found successful and safe, and the least invasive of the three most well-known forms of neuromodulation treatment. Neuromodulation also includes electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) and Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS). It represents one of the newest, most progressive forms of psychiatric therapy, translating advances in modern neuroscience to clinical care.
rTMS involves the use of a device which contains a coil that generates a magnetic field. The coil is placed over key areas of the head and the magnetic field induces electrical currents in the brain. The technology has been in use for diagnostic and research purposes for over two decades, and it was developed as a treatment for depression approximately 20 years ago. rTMS treatments are performed in outpatient clinics and patients may go about their normal daily routine immediately following treatment.
The U-M Department of Psychiatry is proud to offer rTMS treatment for eligible patients. If you think you are a candidate for rTMS, please speak with your psychiatrist or call our clinic at 734-764-023. A formal, outpatient consultation is required before you can be considered for rTMS treatments.
