TMS Therapy
Devices

TMS devices send magnetic pulses to the prefrontal cortex, the part of the brain responsible for executive functioning. They stimulate the neurons in the target area and change their activity. TMS practitioners use this technique to relieve symptoms of mental health disorders. The number of pulses and frequency can be customized according to the patient’s needs.

The FDA has cleared various types of TMS devices to treat major depressive disorder (MDD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), tobacco use disorder (TUD), and depressive anxiety. TMS systems differ in the waveform used, coil design, treatment time, and features that make them more user-friendly. Here is a comparison of different devices.

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Table Of Contents

NeuroStar

NeuroStar is one of the leading brain-stimulation systems that is FDA-approved for patients with MDD who have not responded well to antidepressant medication. It is also cleared for OCD and anxious depression. NeuroStar is the only FDA-approved device for treating adolescent depression in patients who are 15 and older. This system includes a versatile coil and many treatment protocols, including:

MDD Treatment Protocols

Standard, 37.5 minutes per session

Dash, 19 minutes per session

TouchStar, a 3-minute iTBS protocol

OCD Treatment Protocol

NeuroStar does not use neuronavigation for coil placement. TMS technicians detect the motor threshold using magnetic pulses and then use it as a landmark. NeuroStar has an advanced system called Contact Sensing that alerts the practitioner if the connection with the coil is inadequate. It also reduces the motor threshold determination time by 40%. NeuroStar manufacturer Neuronetics has a “pay-per-use” business model, which means that TMS clinics pay a fee for every session.

BrainsWay

BrainsWay is a medical company that produces Deep TMS™ devices for deep transcranial magnetic stimulation. These systems use an advanced H-coil design to deliver pulses further into the brain. BrainsWay has FDA clearance for many neurological and psychiatric disorders. It is widely used to treat depression, OCD, and smoking addiction. The system has shown high efficacy and safety in clinical trials and practice. Deep TMS™ is the first and only device that is FDA-approved for treating late-life depression in patients aged 68 to 86. Deep brain stimulation allows TMS providers to achieve impressive results in this population.

MagVenture

MagVenture is a global manufacturer of TMS devices specializing in non-invasive treatments for mental health conditions. Based in Denmark, the company has been a central player in TMS technology development since its inception in 1992. MagVenture devices are FDA-cleared for the following uses

MagVenture systems utilize repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) to modulate targeted areas of the brain. Known for its innovation, the company also offers advanced devices supporting TBS and new cutting-edge functionality. These systems are designed for research and clinical use. MagVenture has a strong presence in over 60 countries worldwide.

Nexstim

Nexstim is a Finnish company that produces the NBT Navigated Brain Therapy System. It includes a neuronavigation function called SmartFocus, which allows TMS practitioners to create a 3D map of the patient’s brain instead of using the motor threshold detection method. This device was initially designed to help neurosurgeons plan brain surgery, but a version of it is now also cleared by the FDA for alleviating depression symptoms. Nexstim machines can perform various TMS treatments using rTMS and iTBS protocols.

Apollo

Apollo TMS therapy device is manufactured by MAG & More in Germany. It is based on the HANS (Head-and-Neck-Support) coil positioning system and has other advanced features. Apollo received FDA clearance for treating MDD that did not respond to antidepressant medications.

MagStim

The medical engineers at MagStim are some of the leading innovators in the TMS industry. Their Horizon systems are FDA-cleared for depression OCD treatment using various protocols. TMS practitioners can perform 3-minute iTBS sessions to achieve faster results with more intense treatment. They may also select rTMS protocols with 19- and 37.5-minute procedures. MagStim Horizon includes an advanced neuronavigation system called StimGuide that helps to position the magnetic coil. The company’s cutting-edge technology and treatments are changing the mental healthcare landscape.

Soterix Medical

Soterix Medical is a company that produces MEGA-TMS™. This device combines TMS with neuronavigation, making it possible to target a specific brain area without using motor threshold detection. MEGA-TMS™ includes many advanced functions, such as low heat output performance and minimized electromagnetic interference. This system can provide 37.5- and 19-minute treatments with or without neuronavigation.

Neurosoft

CloudTMS, made by Russia-based company Neurosoft, is a TMS system that has received FDA clearance for treating MDD and OCD. It does not include neuronavigation but can be used with Soterix Medical devices. In the U.S., Neurosoft markets its products as CloudTMS. However, this system has other brand names in different regions.

How Do TMS Devices Work?

The first step in using a TMS device is to prepare the patient. This involves seating them in a reclining chair and placing a magnetic coil against their scalp.

Next, the TMS technician must locate the exact region of the brain to stimulate. This target area is determined based on the patient’s symptoms and the desired effects. The provider may use neuronavigation (a structural MRI scan of the patient’s brain) to help guide the placement with a 3D model. Devices without this function, such as NeuroStar and BrainsWay, require TMS technicians to use the standard “landmark-based” method. It involves finding a motor threshold and mapping the brain based on this point.

The TMS device consists of an insulated coil of wire, which may be shaped in many ways, through which a brief electric current is passed. It generates a magnetic field perpendicular to the coil. When the coil is placed against the patient’s head at the targeted scalp site, the magnetic field passes painlessly through the skull and into the brain. This induces an electric current in the neurons underneath.
The TMS technician can inhibit or excite neural activity in the target area.Each TMS session delivers a series of magnetic pulses. The frequency and intensity of stimulation may be adjusted to achieve different neuromodulation effects. The patient remains awake and alert, often reading or watching a movie during the procedure. The TMS technician monitors the patient to ensure safety and achieve the desired results.

TMS therapy requires regular sessions over 4-9 weeks. Each treatment lasts 30-60 minutes. TBS therapy is more intense and involves a shorter procedure time of 3-5 minutes. The healthcare provider sets the initial frequency and duration based on the patient’s condition. Over time, the parameters may be adjusted to achieve optimal results.
The number of sessions varies based on the individual and intended outcome of TMS treatment. Maintenance procedures might also be recommended after the initial course is completed. TMS aims to provide lasting neuromodulation in the brain by repeating the precision-targeted magnetic pulses over time.

The first step in using a TMS device is to prepare the patient. This involves seating them in a reclining chair and placing a magnetic coil against their scalp.

Cost of TMS Devices

Upfront Costs

TMS devices have significant upfront costs. Depending on the model and features, a new system can be priced between $50,000 and over $100,000. This upfront investment pays for the device, including the coil, stimulator, connection cables, accessories, software, and other elements. Additional costs may include installation, staff training, and facility updates to accommodate the system.

Service Fees

In addition to the upfront costs, some manufacturers of TMS devices require ongoing service fees. These may include “pay-for-use” expenses, which the TMS provider must pay the manufacturer for each treatment session. For example, NeuroStar systems involve a $60$ to $100$ fee per procedure.

Warranty

Companies like BrainsWay offer warranty contracts covering regular maintenance, software updates, repairs in case of malfunction, and replacement coils if needed. Some manufacturers also require purchasing proprietary disposable supplies that work with their TMS system.

Select the Best TMS Provider in Your Area Through Our Extensive Database

If you or a loved one is struggling with treatment-resistant depression or other mental health conditions, know that you are not alone. TMS Therapy Near Me is here to help. We are experts in TMS therapy, which has shown great promise in helping people who have not responded to conventional treatment. Unlike vagus nerve stimulation or electroconvulsive therapy, TMS is non-invasive and well-tolerated. It may alleviate bothersome symptoms and help people achieve mental wellness.

While there are many different manufacturers of TMS devices, studies find that they all have similar effectiveness. You can use our directory to search local providers and contact them about TMS. Also, if you are interested in finding a center that uses a specific device, our directory shares those details about them on their profile page

We are committed to improving the quality of life for our patients. If you want to learn more about TMS therapy, you can find a provider near you today. We are always happy to answer any questions and look forward to helping you on your journey to recovery!

TMS Therapy Devices