Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS)
What is repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS)?
Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) is a non-invasive brain stimulation technique that uses magnetic pulses to modulate neuronal activity in specific areas of the brain. A magnetic coil is applied to the scalp, which generates magnetic pulses that pass through the skull and stimulate neurons in the cerebral cortex.
What is this diagnostic procedure for?
Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) is used to treat a variety of neurological and psychiatric disorders, including:
- Treatment-resistant depression: to relieve the symptoms of depression that do not respond to other treatments, such as antidepressants.
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD): to reduce obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors.
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD): to relieve PTSD symptoms, such as flashbacks, nightmares, and anxiety.
- Chronic pain: to reduce chronic pain, such as neuropathic pain and fibromyalgia.
Benefits of advanced technology in rTMS
Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) offers a number of key benefits thanks to the technology it uses:
- Non-invasive: it is a non-invasive technique, which means it does not require surgery or incisions.
- Targeted stimulation: MRI and other neuroimaging methods can be used to guide the placement of the magnetic coil and ensure that the stimulation is directed to the specific brain areas that are to be modulated.
- Treatment personalization: The stimulation parameters (frequency, intensity, duration) can be individually adjusted for each patient, optimizing the treatment results.
Few side effects: In general, rTMS has few side effects, and those that do occur are usually mild and transient.
What does the procedure involve?
Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) is an outpatient procedure that is usually performed in several sessions:
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Preparation:
No special preparation is required for this procedure. You will be asked to remove all metal objects (jewelry, piercings, etc.) from your head and neck. It is important to inform your doctor if you have metal implants in your body, such as pacemakers or cochlear implants. Fasting is not required.
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During the procedure:
You will sit comfortably in a reclining chair. A magnetic coil will be placed on your scalp, near the area of the brain that will be stimulated. The magnetic coil will be activated, generating magnetic pulses that pass through the skull and stimulate neurons in the cerebral cortex. You will feel a gentle tapping on your head during the stimulation. The stimulation session usually lasts between 20 and 60 minutes.
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After the procedure:
You can resume your normal activities immediately after the stimulation session. You may experience some mild side effects, such as headache or scalp discomfort, but these usually disappear quickly.
Recommendations for the procedure
Remember that it is important to adhere to the following recommendations to ensure the quality of the test and your comfort:
- Inform about metal implants: it is crucial to inform your doctor if you have metal implants in your body, such as pacemakers or cochlear implants.
- Report medications: it’s important to tell your doctor about all the medications you’re taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements.
- Avoid alcohol and drugs: avoid alcohol and drug use before and during rTMS treatment.
- Report any discomfort: report any discomfort or side effects you experience during the stimulation session.
Are there any risks?
Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) is generally considered safe, but like any surgical procedure, there are some minor risks to consider:
- Headache: headache is the most common side effect of rTMS. It is usually mild and temporary, and can be relieved with over-the-counter pain relievers.
- Scalp discomfort: some people may experience scalp discomfort during or after the stimulation session.
- Seizures: in rare cases, rTMS can cause seizures. This risk is higher in people with a history of epilepsy or seizures.
- Mania: in people with bipolar disorder, rTMS can trigger a manic episode.
- Hearing loss: in rare cases, rTMS can cause hearing loss if proper hearing protection is not used.
To ensure your procedure runs smoothly, we ask that you arrive before the scheduled time. This will allow us to complete the necessary administrative and clinical preparation.
Before the procedure, we will give you the Informed Consent form, a document with important information that you must read and sign.
If your appointment is for an MRI, it is crucial that you inform us about the presence of pacemakers, metallic objects, prostheses (including dental prostheses), tattoos, or drug infusion devices such as insulin pumps.
These diagnostic tests are very safe, but as with any medical procedure, there is still the unlikely possibility of an incident.
