ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: Since 2017, repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) has become eligible for reimbursement for the treatment of therapy-resistant depression in the Dutch healthcare system.
AIM: To initiate a guideline in the Netherlands and Belgium for the safe and effective application of rTMS for the treatment of depression.
METHOD: Based on literature review, existing guidelines and consensus among Dutch rTMS experts, recommendations were developed regarding the implementation of rTMS as a treatment of depression. All available evidence was weighed and discussed among all co-authors and recommendations were reached by consensus among the group.
RESULTS: rTMS targeting the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) should be seen as a first choice in the treatment of depression using high-frequency rTMS (left) or, as an alternative, low-frequency rTMS (right). Stimulation protocols should use more than 1000 pulses per session for an average of 20-30 sessions, offered in 2-5 sessions per week. Contraindications for rTMS include epilepsy, intracranial presence of (magnetisable) metals, pacemaker and cochlear implant.
CONCLUSION: rTMS, performed by competent professionals is an effective and safe treatment for depression.
