How does it compare to ECT? Is this a replacement?

• ECT and TMS both used applied energy to the brain to cause neural stimulation for relieving the symptoms of depression. ECT uses electrical energy applied to the whole brain, while TMS uses magnetic energy applied only to the left prefrontal cortex.
• ECT is an effective acute treatment for major depression, but is highly invasive (causing seizure induction and requiring anesthesia) and has significant adverse effects. In contrast, TMS is also effective in patients with Major Depressive Disorder but is non-invasive and has an excellent safety profile.
• TMS will likely be used much earlier in the treatment algorithm, because of its favorable risk/benefit ratio.
• ECT will always have an important role for certain depression patients despite safety concerns; however, will be reserved as a “last resort.”