Theta-burst stimulation (TBS) is a novel form of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS or rTMS), filling the gap and providing patients with an alternative treatment for Major Depressive Disorder. Both theta-burst stimulation and TMS are safe, tolerable and effective in treating depression with little or no side-effects. TBS works in the same way as TMS and is administered over the prefrontal cortex. The treatment inspires activity to the region of the brain responsible for mood and emotion.
At Sydney TMS we have been successfully offering theta-burst stimulation therapy over the past two years. Like with our regular treatment, there are many benefits associated with TBS and our patients are appreciating the benefits. Our own observation over the past two years of using theta-burst is that it works just as well as TMS. Furthermore, our patients prefer it due to the significant reduction in treatment time required.
How does theta-burst stimulation differ to rTMS
TBS uses a faster frequency (50Hz instead of 10Hz). It also requires less session time compared to rTMS protocols. Where rTMS takes 30 minutes per session, TBS is dramatically reduced to 3 minute intervals. This creates a more comfortable treatment experience for patients. A full TBS course takes 25 visits while rTMS takes 30 visits.
Benefits of theta-burst stimulation
There are many benefits associated with TBS. Like regular TMS, TBS is well tolerated and safe. There are very few side-effects associated with TBS.
There are additional benefits as TBS does not require as much treatment time and therefore is also significantly cheaper to regular TMS.
TBS and rTMS are both FDA approved and shown to be equally effective. Our own observation after using theta-burst stimulation over the past two years, is that it works just as well as rTMS. Patients prefer TBS due to significantly less treatment time required. Information is readily available through The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists
Patients who still prefer rTMS can visit us at Sydney TMS to receive regular TMS treatment. For those who have experienced success with TMS therapy in the past, we encourage you to keep doing what works for you. Further research material is available via this link.
We are here to help you beat depression, so give us a call and we will tell you more about theta-burst stimulation. 1300 177 144
Or feel free to see how you’re going and take our depression test.
