Posted by shelliR on September 20, 2001, at 19:15:31
In reply to Re: ECT, TMS, VNS, DBS, ABC, THC, LSD, ETC..... » shelliR, posted by Cam W. on September 20, 2001, at 17:30:05
> Shelli - The latest news on TMS use in animals, when focused bilaterally on the limbic system, or on the left side near the Wernecke's area (I am not absolutely positive on the positions) did show some promise. It seems that they have to get new machines with magnets that focus better.
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> Also, the seizure-inducing TMS looks promising. It should work as well as ECT, without the problem of deflection by bones of the skull (magnetic waves travel through bone with little interference, and the burning of the scalp with the high intensity magnetism that is used. Once they overcome these (and probably some other technical problems), seizure-inducing TMS may be as good as ECT, but one will require fewer pre-treatment meds and less risk of amnesia (due to smaller regions of the brain affected - focal stimulation).
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> I have not heard much about Vagal Nerve Stimulation, but it seems like a much more invasive procedure, even than ECT (ie. risk of infection, harm to vagus nerve, etc.).
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> There is another implant, in the news, that looks very promising (Deep Brain Stimulation - I think). It is used to decrease the tremors associated with Parkinson's disease. I've seen some stories on it, and if they implant it properly (it is a tricky operation), it works like a damn.
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> - CamCam, you are correct in that Vagus Nerve Stimulation is a much more invasive procedure. But for those for whom medication and ECT are ineffective, it may be a very good option. It was probably not appropriate to suggest it to Phoenix Girl.
Phoenix Girl, I do remember why the NIMH doctor was steering me away from the trials. He said the trials needed to be longer and they needed to have followup, which was not available at the time. If you can confirm this doctor is reputable, etc. I think you have a good shot. I think 15 sessions may be realistic from what I recall. Please though, do check that this doctor is authorized legally to use this technique outside the trials, because if he's not, it will be you that gets hurt if a discontinuation occurs. You are young and have plenty to time to pay back loans, etc. Also make clear what rights you are signing away and make sure you are comfortable with them. And let us know what's happening, either way. I may be the next one in line. $50 a pop is less than therapy < g >.
Shelli
poster:shelliR
thread:79097
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20010917/msgs/79182.html