Theta Burst Stimulation (TBS) is a non-invasive treatment method that involves delivering magnetic pulses to the brain. In psychiatry, particularly for the treatment of depression, it can be used as an adjunctive treatment option following an evaluation by a psychiatrist.
In this method, the goal is to support the functions of brain regions involved in regulating mood through brief magnetic pulses delivered via a specialized device placed on the head. TBS is administered using a specific stimulation pattern based on the brain’s natural rhythms.
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 the individual can resume their daily activities immediately afterward.
Teta Burst Stimulation may not be suitable for every patient. Therefore, the planning and administration of treatment must be carried out within the framework of a physician’s evaluation and clinical suitability.
What Is the Purpose of Theta Burst Stimulation in Psychiatry?
In psychiatry, Theta Burst Stimulation (TBS) may be considered, particularly in the treatment of depression, in cases where an adequate response is not achieved with current treatments or when evaluating alternative treatment options is deemed appropriate.
TBS may be considered following an evaluation by a psychiatrist in the following situations:
- In cases of depression where insufficient benefit is observed from medication treatments,
- In cases where treatment options are being reconsidered due to side effects associated with medication use,
- In patients where brain stimulation methods are deemed appropriate as an adjunct within the psychiatric treatment plan.
The aim of this method is to contribute to the regulation of brain functions related to mood and to support the individual’s daily functioning.
Teta Burst Stimulation is not considered a standalone treatment method; rather, it is evaluated as part of a comprehensive treatment plan alongside other psychiatric approaches such as medication and psychotherapy. Decisions regarding which patients to treat and how to plan the treatment process must be made by a psychiatrist.
Psychiatric Applications of Theta Burst Stimulation
Scientific studies and clinical applications indicate that the Teta Burst Stimulation (TBS) method is being investigated not only for depression but also for various other psychiatric and neuropsychiatric conditions.
In psychiatry, TBS may be considered as a supportive approach following an evaluation by a psychiatrist in the following conditions:
- Major depression and treatment-resistant depression
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
- Negative symptoms in schizophrenia
- Auditory hallucinations
- Tinnitus
- Nicotine and certain substance use disorders
- Specific symptoms in autism spectrum disorder
The use of Theta Burst Stimulation in some of these areas is still in the stage of scientific research and clinical observation. Decisions regarding which patients are suitable for the treatment and how it should be planned are made only after an evaluation by a psychiatrist.
How Is Theta Burst Stimulation Applied?
The Teta Burst Stimulation (TBS) procedure is performed using magnetic stimuli delivered through a special device placed on the head. The stimuli are applied in short bursts, following a pattern similar to the brain’s natural rhythms.
The treatment process generally proceeds as follows:
- Sessions typically last a few minutes.
- The patient remains awake during the procedure.
- No anesthesia is required, and hospitalization is not necessary.
- After the session, the patient can resume their daily activities.
Prior to the procedure, the patient’s medical condition and psychiatric history are evaluated in detail. Based on this evaluation conducted by a psychiatrist, a decision is made regarding the suitability of TBS.
The patient is monitored regularly throughout the treatment process, and the treatment plan may be revised as needed.
What Are the Types of Theta Burst Stimulation?
There are two main TBS methods used in clinical practice:
Intermittent Theta Burst Stimulation (iTBS)
- It may have an effect that enhances brain activity.
- It has been studied more frequently in psychiatry, particularly in the field of depression.
Continuous Theta Burst Stimulation (cTBS)
- It may have an inhibitory effect on brain activity.
- It may be selected by the physician based on the clinical goal.
The decision on which method to apply is made based on the patient’s clinical condition and the psychiatrist’s assessment.
How Long Does Theta Burst Stimulation Take?
One of the standout features of Theta Burst Stimulation (TBS) is its relatively short application duration. Sessions are typically completed in a short period, depending on the method used and the planned treatment protocol.
Compared to some standard brain stimulation methods, the shorter session duration can make time management easier for patients and improve the treatment process’s compatibility with daily life.
The total duration of treatment, the number of sessions, and the frequency of application are planned individually based on the patient’s clinical condition, their response to treatment, and the psychiatrist’s assessment. Therefore, the treatment process may vary from patient to patient.
Is Theta Burst Stimulation Safe?
According to scientific studies, TBS is considered safe and is among the methods that do not require surgical intervention in the brain.
The most commonly reported side effects:
- Mild headache
- Temporary feeling of fatigue
As with any medical procedure, it should be noted that TBS may not be suitable for everyone. Therefore, the decision to undergo the procedure must be made by a physician.
Who May Not Be Suitable for Theta Burst Stimulation?
- People with a history of epilepsy
- Individuals with metal implants in the brain
- Individuals with certain neurological conditions
In these cases, a detailed evaluation must be conducted prior to treatment.
Teta Burst Stimulation at NPİSTANBUL Hospital
Teta Burst Stimulation (TBS) treatments at NPİSTANBUL Hospital are planned following a detailed evaluation by psychiatry specialists. Before treatment begins, the patient’s psychiatric history, current treatments, and clinical condition are thoroughly assessed.
TBS applications are evaluated within a multidisciplinary framework alongside other psychiatric approaches, such as medication and psychotherapy, that the patient is currently undergoing. The goal is to conduct the treatment process within a personalized and holistic plan.
Throughout the treatment process, patients are regularly monitored, and the treatment plan may be revised based on clinical needs. The appropriateness and continuation of the treatment are determined at each stage in accordance with the physician’s assessment.
