Posted by Pfinstegg on December 12, 2003, at 0:32:43
In reply to Re: TMS, posted by SLS on December 10, 2003, at 7:27:16
Hi Scott.. I don't think anyone knows whether lack of response to ECT would be a poor prognostic sign for TMS. It sounds "logical", but I don't think there's any evidence to back that assumption up.
When I began looking into TMS, two doctors who did it privately were recommended to me (by the Dept. of Psychiatry at Emory): Dr. Hutto and Dr. Steven Best, who is just west of Chicago. Would it be worth your while to see one of these two and consider a trial to see if TMS is helpful? There does not seem to much risk at all with the TMS; it is known to decrease cortisol levels, increase blood flow to the left frontal cortex, increase BDNF, and normalize levels of serotonin, dopamine and nor-epinephrine- things that all depressed people need! I have not had ECT, and although I assume that it works via these same beneficial actions. I am assuming that there are differences also. The TMS is given over the left frontal cortex, and, being an electromagnetic wave, does not spread widely through the brain- the direct effect is only to a depth of about 3 cm. However, it is thought to set up excitation in nerve pathways which reach into the left hippocampus and basal ganglia. It probably doesn't affect the right hemisphere- a big difference from ECT, which sweeps through the entire brain.
One huge drawback with TMS is that, until it is approved, you do have to pay for it privately. I do hope you find something that works, Scott - you have been searching for such a long time. Thank you so much for your encouragement and support- you have mine in full measure, also.
Pfinstegg
I should add that I began psychoanalytic psychotherapy, twice weekly just after the initial TMS treatment. I think the booster TMS seems to help my brain to stay physiologically healthier, while the therapy is aimed at the root causes (abuse)
poster:Pfinstegg
thread:136050
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20031208/msgs/289009.html