WHAT IS TRANSCRANIAL MAGNETIC STIMULATION (TMS)?

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a non-invasive method of brain stimulation which directs an electromagnetic coil system to deliver very short and repeated pulses of magnetic energy.  These magnetic pulses of energy pass painlessly through the skull and stimulate brain cells which can improve communication between different parts of the brain.

Compared to Electro-convulsive therapy (ECT) which creates ‘generalized seizures’, TMS has less side effects and can be performed in an outpatient setting.

WHAT IS IT USED FOR?

Major depressive disorder is a treatable condition, but for certain patients, medication and/or therapy is not effective.  TMS has been shown to be a safe and well-tolerated procedure that can be an effective treatment for patients with depression who have not benefitted from traditional treatments.