Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation TMS
According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), 15 million people in the U.S. are affected by depression each year. Of this number, many will respond only partially or not at all to prescription antidepressant medications.
If you are one of them, talk to your doctor about TMS. It may be the treatment you’ve been looking for.
Don't have a primary care provider? Find a provider accepting new patients.
About TMS Treatment
TMS, or transcranial magnetic stimulation, is a safe, noninvasive form of brain stimulation developed to treat persistent depression. Using magnetic energy, the FDA-approved treatment activates nerve cells in the left prefrontal cortex, the area of the brain that regulates mood.
Psychiatrists may recommend TMS for patients with major depressive disorder (MDD).
TMS Treatment overview
At an initial consultation, a psychiatrist “maps” the patient’s brain to precisely identify the appropriate treatment area. During the treatment sessions that follow, the patient is seated comfortably in a chair and an electromagnetic coil is placed on the head. For the duration of each 18-minute session the patient experiences light taps beneath the coil and hears clicks similar to those from an MRI machine. Because no sedation of any kind is required, the patient is able to drive and resume daily activities immediately after the session ends.
How long does treatment take?
The typical treatment cycle consists of 20 to 30 sessions, or five sessions per week for a total of four to six weeks. Though individual response times vary, patients may begin to feel better after the first week or two. When the treatment cycle has concluded, biweekly “maintenance” sessions may be recommended for an additional 12 weeks.
Risks of TMS
TMS is not indicated for patients with metal implants in or around the head (except dental fillings and braces) or electronic implants in the body, including pacemakers and cochlear implants. Those with a history of brain damage or disease may also be ineligible for the treatment.
To learn more call the TMS program coordinator at 843-522-5877 or 843-522-5600.
Frequently Asked Questions About Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)
Click on the questions below to read the answer.
TMS, or transcranial magnetic stimulation, is a safe, noninvasive form of brain stimulation developed to treat persistent depression. Using magnetic energy, the FDA-approved treatment activates nerve cells in the left prefrontal cortex, the area of the brain that regulates mood.
Psychiatrists may recommend TMS for patients with major depressive disorder (MDD).
In multiple clinical trials worldwide, BrainsWay, the leading-edge Deep TMS technology in use at Beaufort Memorial, has been proven effective in three out of four patients.
At an initial consultation, a psychiatrist “maps” the patient’s brain to precisely identify the appropriate treatment area. During the treatment sessions that follow, the patient is seated comfortably in a chair and an electromagnetic coil is placed on the head. For the duration of each 18-minute session the patient experiences light taps beneath the coil and hears clicks similar to those from an MRI machine.
Because no sedation of any kind is required, the patient is able to drive and resume daily activities immediately after the session ends.
The typical treatment cycle consists of 20 to 30 sessions, or five sessions per week for a total of four to six weeks. Though individual response times vary, patients may begin to feel better after the first week or two. When the treatment cycle has concluded, biweekly “maintenance” sessions may be recommended for an additional 12 weeks.
TMS is well tolerated by patients. The most common side effects, which generally are mild, resolve quickly and lessen in frequency as sessions progress, are:
- Headache
- Muscle tension
- Facial muscle twitches
None of the systemic side effects that can occur with antidepressant medication, such as weight gain, dry mouth and sexual dysfunction, have been reported.
TMS is not indicated for patients with metal implants in or around the head (except dental fillings and braces) or electronic implants in the body, including pacemakers and cochlear implants. Those with a history of brain damage or disease may also be ineligible for the treatment.
Yes. The FDA has approved TMS for the treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and migraine as well as depression. Its effectiveness in treating a broad range of other conditions is under study.
The TMS treatment team comprises a board-certified psychiatrist, who performs initial brain mapping and is present for all treatment sessions; and a skilled TMS technician, who administers the treatment. The team works closely with patients and their family members to monitor response.
In most cases, medical insurance covers TMS. As needed, the Beaufort Memorial TMS program coordinator helps patients obtain coverage for the treatment.
Other questions? Call the call the TMS program coordinator at 843-522-5877 or 843-522-5600.