Accelerated TMS Therapy
Learn all you need to know about accelerated TMS therapy for depression (MDD & TRD)
San Diego's Most Experienced Providers of Accelerated TMS Therapy
Introduction to Accelerated TMS Therapy
There is a groundbreaking new treatment for those who struggle with treatment-resistant depression, anxiety, and OCD. Accelerated Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) therapy is a safe, effective, and fast-acting treatment.
Similar to traditional TMS therapy, Accelerated TMS uses targeted magnetic fields to stimulate different regions of the brain that are associated with specific mental health conditions. A TMS device delivers bursts of magnetic pulses in different frequencies and at certain intervals based on protocols that have been shown to help with these neuropsychiatric conditions.
At Kadima, we have been offering Accelerated TMS at our San Diego clinic for over two years now, and the results have been nothing short of impressive.
In this article, we will explore what Accelerated TMS is, how it differs from traditional TMS, how it works, and what the benefits and potential side effects are.
“Think of TMS as analogous to physical therapy for a muscle injury”, says Dr. David Feifel, “but instead of strengthening a weak muscle group, TMS strengthens a weakly functioning brain region.”
Traditional TMS vs Accelerated TMS
Unlike traditional TMS methods, Accelerated TMS compresses the treatment into a shorter timeframe, often completed within two weeks or less. It does so by applying tested treatment regiments such as Theta Burst Stimulation and SAINT protocol.
As demonstrated in a 2023 study published in the Harvard Review of Psychiatry, this accelerated pace is comparable to conventional TMS results, delivering rapid relief to individuals burdened by depression.
How Accelerated TMS Works
The process of Accelerated TMS involves giving a similar number of TMS treatments as in regular TMS, but in a shorter period of time. Thus, in Accelerated TMS, multiple TMS treatments are given daily for about two weeks. The frequency at which the magnetic pulses of TMS are delivered is higher, and there are a few sessions a day depending on the protocol utilized.
Accelerated TMS utilizes innovative technology like the Brainsway Deep TMS device. The Brainsway device has an advanced H-shape coil that is capable of targeting deeper regions more accurately compared to other TMS devices like MagVenture, Neurostar, and others.
Accelerated TMS Protocol
To understand accelerated TMS, it is important to first understand Theta Burst Stimulation (TBS) and how the SAINT protocol leverages this technique.
Theta Burst Stimulation
Theta burst stimulation, also known as TBS, is a new and faster form of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) session. Unlike traditional rTMS, TBS delivers shorter, higher frequency patterned bursts of magnetic pulses that more closely mimic the brain’s natural rhythms. This approach allows for shorter treatment sessions while potentially offering similar results compared to standard rTMS protocols. The treatment series is similar to traditional rTMS in length, but has a pulse pattern that results in shorter sessions.
SAINT Protocol
The SAINT protocol, which stands for Stanford Accelerated Intelligent Neuromodulation Therapy, is a revolutionary approach to shorten TMS treatment for depression. It utilizes Theta-Burst Stimulation (TBS) delivered in a highly accelerated way. SAINT condenses TMS treatment into just five days. This is achieved by utilizing multiple TBS sessions spread throughout each day, ideally every 50 minutes or so.
Benefits of Accelerated TMS Therapy
Accelerated TMS has many advantages over other treatments.
Studies have shown a high success rate of this depression treatment. Accelerated TMS is helping patients regain their quality of life and improve their well being.
In a 2020 Stanford university study, it was found that “SAINT significantly reduced depressive symptoms and suicidal ideation in patients with treatment-resistant depression within 5 days, without negative cognitive side effects.”
Patients can expect rapid symptom improvement, often experiencing relief after just a few sessions. This form of TMS is as effective as traditional one but takes less than half the time to complete.
Moreover, the non-invasive nature of Accelerated TMS treatment allows individuals to resume their daily activities immediately following each session, without the need for downtime and with minimal potential side effects.
At Kadima, many of our patients have seen tremendous improvement in their mental health following accelerated TMS treatments, you can hear some of their experiences in our TMS therapy review page.
Safety and Side Effects of Accelerated TMS
Safety is our top priority at Kadima, and that extends to Accelerated TMS therapy. This innovative treatment was FDA approved and found to have a favorable safety profile, with minimal side effects reported.
These potential side effects can include headaches, scalp discomfort, tingling or twitching in facial muscles, and even seizures in rare cases.
To address seizure risk specifically, a comprehensive review published by Kadima’s founder Dr. David Feifel and colleagues at Harvard Medical School in 2021, revealed that the risk of TMS-related seizures is less than 1% overall and comparable to the risk of seizure from conventional psychiatric medication.
Furthermore, most side effects experienced during accelerated TMS therapy are mild and typically disappear shortly after the treatment session. For your peace of mind, our compassionate nurses and experienced physicians will closely monitor you throughout your entire treatment at Kadima.
Eligibility and Treatment Process
The accelerated TMS treatment process at Kadima follows these steps:
- Free Assessment and Insurance Coverage: We begin with a free assessment to understand your needs and help you navigate your insurance coverage for accelerated TMS therapy.
- One-on-one Consultation with Dr. Feifel: Dr. David Feifel, a leading neuropsychiatrist who has contributed to advancements in TMS treatment, will then conduct a one-on-one consultation to tailor a personalized treatment plan for you.
- Brain Mapping with Brainsway Device: During your first TMS session, Dr. Feifel will perform a brain mapping procedure using our Brainsway TMS device, considered the most advanced TMS technology available.
- Treatment Series: Following the brain mapping and based on the prescribed protocol, you will begin your series of personalized accelerated TMS treatments.
Why Choose Kadima for Accelerated TMS in San Diego
When seeking effective treatment for depression, anxiety, PTSD, or other challenging conditions, Kadima provides a personalized approach with a focus on your unique needs. Unlike some clinics, you won’t be treated like a number. Here, you’ll receive a comprehensive treatment plan tailored specifically for you. This plan will be curated during your one-on-one consultation with Dr. David Feifel, a leading expert in treatment-resistant depression and one of the first psychiatrists in the US to use TMS Therapy.
We use the Brainsway Deep TMS device, which utilizes the most advanced technology available for Accelerated TMS. Throughout your treatment journey, Kadima’s team of highly qualified physicians and therapists will closely monitor your progress.
Kadima goes beyond just offering accelerated TMS treatment. Our multidisciplinary team approach ensures you receive the most comprehensive care possible. This team includes board-certified psychiatrists, experienced therapists, and caring nurses who all work together to address your mental health needs. With a focus on patient well-being, Kadima fosters a warm and supportive environment where you’ll feel comfortable and cared for throughout your treatment.
Interested in Accelerated TMS Therapy?
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Address: 3252 Holiday Ct Ste 112, La Jolla, CA 92037
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