[The efficacy of transcranial magnetic stimulation in the treatment of depression]. / Skutecznosc przezczaszkowej stymulacji magnetycznej w leczeniu depresji.

BACKGROUND: Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is known as method of depression therapy. RESULTS: The paper presents the results of clinical 2nd phase investigation or safety and efficacy of TMS as compared to electroconvulsive therapy and standalone pharmacotherapy. RESULTS: It was shown that in all three groups of patients a significant improvement of clinical state (decrease of depressive symptoms) was achieved. The strongest effect was observed in the group of patients treated with electroconvulsive therapy (as well as drugs). However, trans-cranial magnetic stimulation combined with pharmacotherapy did not prove to be more effective than standalons pharmacological treatment. The authors discuss possible explanations of inefficacy of transcranial magnetic stimulation therapy. CONCLUSIONS: None antidepressive efficacy of TMS was observed. Forthcoming examinations of TMS are necessary for optimalization of stimulation parameters and conditions.