Deep TMS stands for “Deep Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation”. Deep TMS is a non-invasive procedure, involving stimulation of a part of the brain called the Left Prefrontal Cortex. The stimulation activates the nerve cells in this region of the brain and improves depressive symptoms. The stimulation is produced by a treatment “coil” contained in a helmet. During treatment, the helmet is gently positioned on the left front side of your head, over this region of the brain. Short pulses of electricity sent through the treatment coil generate magnetic fields that turn on and off very rapidly. These magnetic fields are similar to those used in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) systems. The magnetic field goes through the head and induces a weak electrical current that briefly activates the nerve cells in this region of the brain and improves depressive symptoms.
Here is a short video about BrainsWay® Deep TMS treatment for depression.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about BrainsWay® Deep TMS treatment
When Should the Brainsway Deep TMS Treatment be used?
The Brainsway Deep TMS System is indicated for the treatment of depressive episodes in adult patients suffering from Major Depressive Disorder who failed to achieve satisfactory improvement from previous anti-depressant medication treatment in the current episode
Does Brainsway's TMS treatment have any side effects or risks?
Brainsway® Deep TMS treatment has been proven safe and effective, and has no known systemic side effects. The most common side effect is temporary, mild pain or discomfort in the area of the treatment site, which occurs during the treatment session. This typically occurs only during the first week of TMS treatment. Other side effects may include muscle twitching and jaw pain.
I have already tried different types of medication and had poor results – will Brainsway be any better?
Studies have shown Brainsway’s treatment to be effective for patients with depression, regardless of how many medications were tried in the current episode of depression.
How does Brainsway's TMS treatment compare with ECT?
While ECT entails electrically induced seizures, Brainsway* Deep TMS therapy stimulates brain regions using brief magnetic pulses at an amplitude similar to that used in MRI systems. ECT requires anesthesia and may entail severe side effects, including memory loss, while Deep TMS therapy does not involve anesthesia, has no effects on memory, and is generally well-tolerated
Is Brainsway's TMS treatment for everyone?
In general, the treatment should not be used if you have metal implants in or around the head (except forstandard amalgam dental fillings).
How long will my treatment last?
Brainway TMS treatment is a convenient, non-invasive, outpatient procedure that requires no hospitalization or anesthesia. The procedure typically requires daily sessions of 20 minutes over 4-6 weeks. After each session, patients can return home independently, and follow through their normal daily routine.
What do patients usually feel during the TMS treatment session?
Typically, patients hear a tapping sound and feel a tapping sensation in the head area during the TMS therapy session. To diminish the sound, the patient is provided with earplugs.
Some patients experience temporary, mild pain or discomfort in the area of the treatment site, which occurs during the treatment session. This typically occurs only during the first week of TMS treatment. Other side effects may include muscle twitching and jaw pain.
Will my insurance cover the cost of TMS treatment?
Most major insurance companies (BCBS, Aetna, Medicare, United Healthcare, etc.) now cover the cost of TMS treatment if the patient meets the criteria specific to that company. If you are found to be eligible for TMS treatment, we will work with you to find out whether your insurance will cover the cost of treatment or not.
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