Review of the Effectiveness of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation for Post-traumatic Stress Disorder

BackgroundPost-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a psychiatric condition with significant morbidity and limited treatment options. Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) has been shown to be an effective treatment for mental illnesses including major depressive disorder.ObjectiveReview effectiveness of TMS for PTSD.MethodsLiterature review with descriptions of primary studies as well as meta-analysis of studies with a control group.ResultsEight primary studies were identified and three studies met criteria for meta-analysis. All studies suggest effectiveness of TMS for PTSD. Additionally, right-sided may be more effective than left-sided treatment, there is no clear advantage in high versus low frequency, and the treatment is generally well tolerated. Meta-analysis shows significant effect size on PTSD symptoms that may be correlated with total number of stimulations.ConclusionsTMS for PTSD appears to be an effective and well-tolerated treatment that warrants additional study to further define treatment parameters, course, and side effects.