Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation is an FDA cleared alternative treatment for the treatment of Medication-refractory depression.
The principle of therapeutic magnetic stimulation is based on the following: The magnetic stimulator uses magnetic pulses of short duration. The emerging high-intensity electromagnetic field easily penetrates through skin, cranium bones and soft tissues. As a result, an electrical current is induced within the cortex. This electrical current can modulate activity and excitability of the cortex neurons for a period of time exceeding the stimulation session time. This modulation has a clinically proven therapeutic effect that has been FDA cleared for the treatment of depression.
Patients are awake and alert during treatment
No anesthesia is involved
Patients can go back to their normal activities immediately after treatment
In-office treatment takes 19 to 37 minutes
Treatment is administered 5 days a week, for approximately 4 to 6 weeks
Patients do not have to stop their current medications during treatment
Maintenance treatment may be administered every 3-6 months if needed
TMS is covered by most insurance plans and a reasonable copay may apply
TMS is contraindicated in patients with metal implants, pacemakers or other metal devices
TMS does not involve any radiation
TMS IS NOT THE SAME AS SHOCK TREATMENT
Fountain Health accepts almost all major insurances for mental health services. If you are uncertain as to whether or not Fountain Health is in network with your insurance company, please call us at (215) 639-3185.