Purpose of Technology

Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is a noninvasive technique that is being investigated as a treatment for major depression. Brief repetitive pulses of magnetic energy are applied to the scalp via a large electromagnetic coil to generate low levels of electrical current in the underlying brain tissue. The goal of TMS is to stimulate areas of the brain involved in mood regulation to lessen the duration or severity of depressive episodes.

Questions addressed in this report include:

• Is TMS effective in relieving depression symptoms, and how does TMS compare with other strategies for treating depression?
• Is TMS safe for treating depression?
• Have definitive patient selection criteria been established for TMS for the treatment of depression?

These questions provide a framework for review and synthesis of the best available evidence, which is presented in this report, along with the Hayes Ratings for the technology. This report also provides background information about the condition being treated, a description of the technology, and the context for development of the technology. Other key elements addressed in the report include the regulatory status; applicable Medicare and commercial payer coverage policies; relevant ICD-9 and ICD-10 diagnosis codes; cost and cost effectiveness; credentialing; hospital length of stay; need for large case management; and ongoing and future clinical trials of the technology.

Posted in Directory Reports
This entry was posted on Monday, June 14th, 2010 at 12:00 pm.