What is a central motor conduction study with TMS?
The central motor conduction study using transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is an advanced technique that evaluates the functionality of the central nervous system, specifically the motor pathways. It uses non-invasive magnetic pulses to stimulate specific areas of the brain and measure the response in peripheral muscles. This procedure allows for the identification of alterations in motor conduction and the evaluation of the functional state of the neuromotor pathways.
What is this test for?
The central motor conduction study with TMS is mainly used for:
Neurological diagnosis: To identify alterations in the motor pathways related to diseases such as multiple sclerosis, spinal cord injuries, central neuropathies, among others.
Evaluation of movement disorders: It is used to analyze the impact of conditions such as Parkinson’s disease or dystonias on the motor pathways.
Clinical follow-up: It is used to monitor the progression of neurological diseases and evaluate the effectiveness of treatments.
Clinical research: It helps to study brain plasticity and motor connections in different populations and pathologies.
Benefits of high technology in central motor conduction with TMS
TMS uses a device that generates brief and controlled magnetic pulses. These pulses stimulate specific areas of the brain, such as the motor cortex, and activate the descending motor pathways. The response is measured using electrodes placed on the peripheral muscles, which allows for the analysis of the speed and quality of motor conduction.
What is the procedure like?
Preparation:
Before the procedure, your doctor will have a consultation with you to learn about your medical history and the symptoms you are experiencing. If you have previous studies, such as magnetic resonance imaging or electromyography, they will be reviewed for more information. On the day of the study, wear comfortable clothing without metal elements. Also, be sure to inform the medical team if you have a pacemaker, metal implants, or other electronic devices in your body.
During the test:
You will be placed in a comfortable position, either sitting or lying down. Then, the doctor will use a magnetic stimulator to send pulses to the motor cortex of your brain. While this is happening, electrodes placed on your muscles will record the motor responses generated by the stimulation. The procedure usually lasts between 30 and 60 minutes.
After the test:
You can resume your normal activities immediately after the procedure. A neurophysiology specialist will analyze and interpret the results and send them to your doctor, who will explain the findings.
Recommendations for the test
Try to stay as still as possible during the procedure to ensure the accuracy of the results. Also, follow all medical instructions before, during, and after the study.
Are there any risks?
The central motor conduction study with TMS is a safe and non-invasive procedure. However, there are some minimal considerations:
Mild discomfort: You may experience a tingling sensation or muscle contraction in the stimulated area.
Mild headache: Some people may experience a temporary headache after the procedure.
Interference with electronic devices: TMS uses magnetic fields, so be sure to inform the medical team if you have any implanted electronic devices.
To ensure your test goes smoothly, we ask that you arrive before the scheduled time. This will allow us to complete the necessary administrative and clinical preparation.
Before the test, we will give you the Informed Consent, a document with important information that you must read and sign.
If your appointment is for a Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), it is crucial that you inform us about the presence of pacemakers, metal objects, prostheses (including dental ones), tattoos, or medication infusion devices, such as insulin pumps.
These diagnostic tests are very safe, but as with any medical procedure, there is a minimal possibility of an incident
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