Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a novel diagnostic tool that is similar to a nerve conduction study utilizing a surface magnetic impulse over the head and electric stimulation over the neck that stimulates upper motor neurons and the nerve tract, enabling us to measure the timing of electrical impulse from the brain to muscle (called motor evoked potential). This technique is conducted in the laboratory of Seth Pullman, MD and evaluates the electrophysiological integrity of the upper motor neuron. TMS or r.TMS means Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation. Using a patented magnetic stimulator and special coils, we target specific area of the brain implicated in depression, mood disorders or neurological disorders. The magnetic pulses safely and painlessly inhibit or stimulate reaction in the cerebral cortex. Stimulation parameters, dosage and duration will be determined by the consultants using our patented Treatment Protocols. The preliminary results of the UIC trial will be published in a forthcoming issue of Biological Psychiatry. An abstract of the paper is available online at www.elsevier.com/locate/biopsych.

One of the techniques we employ in our lab is transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS). TMS is delivered by a coil on the surface of the head, which generates a brief put powerful magnetic pulse that induce a temporary current in a small area on the surface of the brain. This current can interfere with processing of the brain with high temporal and fair spatial precision. Our facility includes a stereotactic guidance system for the TMS coil that enables us to visualize the precise site of stimulation in the brain. Work in our laboratory involves applying TMS to the visual cortex to induce visual losses of function known as scotomas. These scotomas are used to measure the timing and contributions to visual perception of the various visual areas. Furthermore, effects of attention upon these visual deficits are investigated. Patients are prescribed trains of magnetic pulses daily sessions of about 30 - 45 minutes of treatment in courses of 10 - 20 sessions, treatment administrated over a 2 - 4 weeks period. No side effects are noted and patients are able to return home after each session.