How does TMS compare to other treatments for depression?
ECT requires general anesthesia, so it must be given in a hospital even if it is done as an outpatient procedure. It can cause confusion, memory problems, and significant effects on the cardiovascular system. Although confusion and memory problems are only temporary, it is virtually impossible to continue to go to work or school while having ECT. The vagus nerve stimulator requires invasive and risky surgery, and although it is FDA approved, it is generally not very effective. Deep brain stimulation is another surgical treatment for depression, but it is still considered to be experimental and a high risk procedure.
