Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation

A noninvasive procedure that uses magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in the brain to improve symptoms of depression. An electromagnetic coil is placed against the patient's scalp near the forehead. The electromagnet painlessly delivers a magnetic pulse that stimulates nerve cells in the region of the brain involved in mood control and depression, and may activate regions of the brain that have decreased activity in people with depression. TMS is typically used when other depression treatments haven't been effective; and because the treatment involves delivering repetitive magnetic pulses, it's called repetitive TMS or rTMS. Common side effects may include headache; scalp discomfort at the stimulation site; tingling, spasms or twitching of facial muscles; and lightheadedness. Uncommon side effects are rare and may include seizures, mania (particularly in people with bipolar disorder) and hearing loss if there is inadequate ear protection during treatment.