How does TMS work?
TMS uses a magnetic coil that induces small electrical currents, directing magnetic energy into the brain.
TMS converts electrical energy into magnetic energy, which then generates electrical currents in the area below the coil. The coil is positioned directly over the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex which research indicates is the principle area of the brain controlling mood.
The stimulation strength varies between individuals and is calculated based on the individual patient’s motor threshold.
There are a number of different stimulation protocols. Our clinic uses the most common protocol to start with; 10Hz, to the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex in 4 second trains, with 11 seconds of rest between trains, and a total of 75 trains. This delivers 3000 pulses per session.
In some instances we use bilateral stimulation, where we use an additional stimulation of 1Hz to the right dorsolateral prefrontal cortex every second in a continuous train for 1200 pulses.