Transcranial magnetic stimulation

Abstract

Keypoints: 1. Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) is a noninvasive method for applying electromagnetic fields to the brain. 2. rTMS can induce alterations of neuronal activity that outlast the stimulation period. 3. By modulating the excitability of the auditory cortex, rTMS can influence tinnitus perception. 4. Single sessions of rTMS over the temporal or temporoparietal cortex have been successful in transiently reducing tinnitus perception. 5. Repeated sessions of rTMS have resulted in tinnitus relief in a subgroup of patients lasting from several days to several months. 6. However, effect sizes of rTMS in the treatment of tinnitus are only moderate, and interindividual variability is high. 7. Further research is needed before this technique can be recommended for routine clinical use. © Springer Science+Business Media, LLC 2011.