Our Summary

Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is a method that uses magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in the brain. It’s already used and proven to be effective for treating conditions like depression and obsessive-compulsive disorder. It has also been approved by the FDA to help people quit smoking. TMS works by targeting and adjusting activity in specific areas of the brain.

Now, researchers are testing whether this treatment could be used for other conditions related to the brain. These include chronic neurological pain, bipolar disorder, epilepsy, and cognitive decline, among others. The article discusses the success of TMS so far, the challenges in setting up clinical trials to test it, and the many potential applications for this treatment in the future.

FAQs

  1. What is transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and how does it work?
  2. What conditions has TMS been proven effective in treating?
  3. What other conditions are researchers testing TMS for?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about brain surgery is to follow all post-operative care instructions carefully. This may include taking prescribed medications, attending follow-up appointments, and following any restrictions on physical activity. It is important to give your brain time to heal properly and to avoid any activities that could potentially cause harm or complications. It is also important to communicate openly with your healthcare team about any concerns or changes in symptoms during the recovery process.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for brain surgery are those with conditions such as brain tumors, epilepsy, Parkinson’s disease, traumatic brain injury, arteriovenous malformations, and certain psychiatric disorders. These conditions may require surgical intervention to remove tumors, relieve pressure on the brain, control seizures, or improve overall brain function. Patients who have not responded well to other treatments or medications may be recommended for brain surgery as a last resort option.

Timeline

Before brain surgery:

  1. Patient is diagnosed with a condition that requires brain surgery, such as a tumor, epilepsy, or Parkinson’s disease.
  2. Patient undergoes pre-operative testing and evaluations to assess their overall health and determine the best approach for the surgery.
  3. Patient meets with their surgeon and medical team to discuss the procedure, potential risks and benefits, and what to expect before, during, and after surgery.
  4. Patient may undergo additional imaging tests, such as MRI or CT scans, to provide the surgical team with detailed information about the brain and the condition being treated.

After brain surgery:

  1. Patient is closely monitored in the hospital recovery room immediately after surgery to ensure they are stable and recovering well.
  2. Patient may experience some pain, swelling, and discomfort at the surgical site, which can be managed with pain medication and other supportive care.
  3. Patient may need to stay in the hospital for a few days to a week, depending on the type of surgery and their individual recovery process.
  4. Patient will follow a post-operative care plan, which may include physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and other rehabilitative services to help them regain function and strength.
  5. Patient will have follow-up appointments with their surgeon and medical team to monitor their progress, address any concerns or complications, and adjust their treatment plan as needed.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about brain surgery include:

  1. What specific condition or issue is the brain surgery intended to address?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with the brain surgery?
  3. What is the expected recovery time and rehabilitation process following the brain surgery?
  4. Are there alternative treatment options to consider before opting for brain surgery?
  5. How experienced is the surgeon in performing this particular type of brain surgery?
  6. What is the success rate of this type of brain surgery for patients with similar conditions?
  7. What can I expect in terms of long-term outcomes and potential side effects of the brain surgery?
  8. Will I need any follow-up appointments or ongoing care after the brain surgery?
  9. Are there any lifestyle changes or precautions I should take before or after the brain surgery?
  10. How can I best prepare myself physically and mentally for the brain surgery?

Reference

Authors: Banks J. Journal: IEEE Pulse. 2025 Mar-Apr;16(2):4-8. doi: 10.1109/MPULS.2025.3554929. PMID: 40343804