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 neural 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 treatment for?
Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) is used to treat a variety of neurological and psychiatric disorders, including:
- Treatment-resistant depression: To alleviate 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 alleviate PTSD symptoms, such as flashbacks, nightmares, and anxiety.
- Chronic pain: To reduce chronic pain, such as neuropathic pain and fibromyalgia.
Benefits of high technology in rTMS
Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) offers a series of key benefits thanks to the technology it uses:
- Few side effects: In general, rTMS has few side effects, and those that do occur are usually mild and transient.
- 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 to be modulated.
- Treatment personalization: Stimulation parameters (frequency, intensity, duration) can be individually adjusted for each patient, optimizing treatment outcomes.
What is the procedure like?
Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) is an outpatient procedure that is generally performed in several sessions:
-
Preparation:
No special preparation is required for this test. 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 any metal implants in your body, such as pacemakers or cochlear implants. Fasting is not necessary.
-
During the treatment:
You will sit comfortably in a reclining chair. A magnetic coil will be placed on your scalp, near the area of the brain to be stimulated. The magnetic coil will be turned on, 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.
-
After the treatment:
You can resume your usual activities immediately after the stimulation session. You may experience some mild side effects, such as a headache or scalp discomfort, but these usually disappear quickly.
Recommendations for the treatment
Remember that it is important to follow these recommendations to ensure the quality of the study and your comfort:
- Inform about metal implants: It is crucial to inform the medical staff if you have any metal implants in your body, such as pacemakers or cochlear implants.
- Inform about medications: It is important to inform your doctor about all the medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements.
- Avoid alcohol and drugs: Avoid consuming alcohol and drugs before and during rTMS treatment.
- Communicate any discomfort: Communicate any discomfort or side effects you experience during the stimulation session.
Are there any risks?
Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) is generally safe, but like any medical procedure, it has some minimal risks to consider:
- Headache: Headache is the most common side effect of rTMS. It is usually mild and transient, 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 adequate hearing protection is not used.
To ensure your treatment 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 treatment, we will give you the Informed Consent, a document with important information that you must read and sign.
These treatments are very safe, but as with any medical procedure, there is a minimal possibility of an incident.
