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Review of the effectiveness of transcranial magnetic stimulation for post-traumatic stress disorder
Ethan F Karsen1, Bradley V Watts2, Paul E Holtzheimer3
1Department of Psychiatry, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, One Medical Center Drive, Lebanon, New Hampshire, USA.
Background:
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a psychiatric condition with significant morbidity and limited treatment options. Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) has been shown to be an effective treatment for mental illnesses including major depressive disorder.
Objective:
Review effectiveness of TMS for PTSD.
Methods:
Literature review with descriptions of primary studies as well as meta-analysis of studies with a control group.
Results:
Eight primary studies were identified and three studies met criteria for meta-analysis. All studies suggest effectiveness of TMS for PTSD. Additionally, right-sided may be more effective than left-sided treatment, there is no clear advantage in high versus low frequency, and the treatment is generally well tolerated. Meta-analysis shows significant effect size on PTSD symptoms that may be correlated with total number of stimulations.
Conclusions:
TMS for PTSD appears to be an effective and well-tolerated treatment that warrants additional study to further define treatment parameters, course, and side effects.
