Personalized TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) is a non-invasive neuromodulation method designed to stimulate specific regions of the brain using magnetic pulses.
No surgical procedure is performed during the treatment; anesthesia is not required, and the patient remains awake throughout the procedure. Sessions are typically brief, and patients can return to their daily activities immediately afterward.
Personalized TMS is not considered a standalone treatment method; rather, it is viewed as a supportive component of a comprehensive treatment plan, provided the psychiatrist deems it appropriate.
How Does Personalized TMS Differ from Standard TMS?
In standard TMS applications, stimulation is generally applied to specific, fixed regions. However, each individual’s brain structure, symptoms, and response to treatment may vary.
In Personalized TMS,
- A detailed psychiatric evaluation is conducted prior to treatment.
- Data regarding brain function is taken into account.
- The targeted brain regions are determined on an individual basis.
- Clinical response is regularly monitored throughout the treatment process.
The goal of this approach is to create a treatment plan tailored to the individual’s needs rather than applying the same treatment to everyone.
What Is the Purpose of Personalized TMS in Psychiatry?
In psychiatry, Personalized TMS is considered particularly in cases where adequate response to current treatments cannot be achieved or where adjunctive methods are deemed appropriate.
Following an evaluation by a specialist physician, Personalized TMS may be considered in the following situations:
- Depression It may be considered as an adjunctive treatment when symptoms do not sufficiently improve despite medication and psychotherapy.
- Anxiety Disorders: It may be used in patients deemed suitable, particularly in cases where persistent tension, restlessness, and a sense of mental burden are prominent.
- Obsessive-Compulsive Symptoms (OCD): It may be considered as a supportive method within the treatment plan in cases accompanied by obsessive thoughts and behaviors.
- Trauma and Stress-Related Symptoms It may be considered for emotional and mental distress arising after intense stress and traumatic experiences.
- Attention, Focus, and Cognitive Difficulties In individuals experiencing mental sluggishness, inattention, and difficulties with cognitive functions, it may be used as a supportive approach when clinically appropriate.
The goal of this method is not to eliminate symptoms on its own, but to support the individual’s daily functioning and the psychiatric treatment process.
How Is Personalized TMS Planned?
Personalized TMS treatment proceeds through a personalized planning process rather than a standard protocol.
The treatment process generally consists of the following stages:
- Psychiatric evaluation and review of the treatment history
- Identification of target regions based on clinical symptoms
- Scheduling sessions tailored to the individual
- Regular monitoring throughout treatment and revising the plan as needed
The individual remains awake during sessions; the procedure is painless and does not require anesthesia. A return to daily life is possible immediately following the procedure.
Is Personalized TMS Safe?
Personalized TMS is a non-surgical method and is considered safe in clinical practice.
Most commonly reported side effects:
- Mild headache
- Temporary discomfort in the treatment area
As with any medical procedure, Personalized TMS may not be suitable for everyone. Therefore, the decision to undergo the procedure must be made by a specialist physician.
Personalized TMS at NPİSTANBUL Hospital
Personalized TMS treatments at NPİSTANBUL Hospital:
- Following a detailed evaluation by psychiatry specialists,
- in conjunction with the individual’s current treatments,
- and within a multidisciplinary approach.
The goal is not to provide a standard treatment for every patient; rather, it is to create a comprehensive and personalized treatment process tailored to the individual’s clinical needs. Throughout the treatment process, patients are regularly monitored, and the treatment plan may be revised based on clinical needs.
