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.<br/> AIM: To initiate a guideline in the Netherlands and Belgium for the safe and effective application of rTMS for the treatment of depression.<br/> 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.<br/> 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.<br/> CONCLUSION: rTMS, performed by competent professionals is an effective and safe treatment for depression.
Translated title of the contribution | Consensus statement on the application of rTMS in depression in the Netherlands and Belgium |
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Original language | Dutch |
Pages (from-to) | 411-420 |
Number of pages | 10 |
Journal | Tijdschrift voor Psychiatrie |
Volume | 61 |
Issue number | 6 |
Publication status | Published - 2019 |