When it comes to mental health treatments, traditional Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and SAINT TMS are two of the most promising methods in the treatment of depression. While both treatments use magnetic pulses to stimulate brain activity, there are some differences in how they work, what they target, and the onset of improvement.
As mental health and wellness care continue to improve, it is crucial for both patients and health care professionals to understand the differences between these two treatments. In this blog, we’ll explain what TMS and SAINT TMS are, how they differ, and why SAINT TMS could be a game-changer in the treatment of depression.
What is TMS?
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is an FDA approved and non-invasive procedure for treatment of depression that works by placing a magnetic coil on a region of the scalp determined by standard treatment protocol. It uses short magnetic pulses to stimulate the part of the brain that is often underactive in people with depression. This treatment helps increase brain activity and, over time, can re-establish normal brain function and reduce symptoms of depression.
What is the SAINT TMS?
SAINT TMS is a unique approach to the management of depression and has marked a new phase for TMS treatment. Also FDA approved and non-invasive, this system uses a personalized approach to determining the optimal treatment location in each person’s brain by using MRI brain scans. SAINT TMS also uses short magnetic pulses to stimulate the brain but because the location is individually determined, this treatment can better target the network that regulates mood and lead to better and faster symptom relief.
How Are TMS and SAINT TMS Different?
While both Traditional TMS and SAINT TMS use magnetic stimulation to treat depression, here’s how they differ:
| Key Difference | Traditional TMS | SAINT TMS |
| Treatment Location | Pre-determined location using standard protocol | Personalized location determined by MRI brain scan |
| Treatment Duration | One treatment session per day for 7 or more weeks | 10 treatment sessions per day for 1 week |
| Onset of Improvement | Gradual, within a few weeks | Fast, within days or a week |
Who is Not Suitable for TMS?
While TMS and SAINT TMS are generally safe and well-tolerated, individuals should consult their doctors and be aware of the following contraindications of using TMS:
Patients with Metallic Implants:
Some of the contraindications include the presence of metallic implants in the head, such as brain pacemakers, aneurysm clips, or other metallic objects near the head, such as cochlear implants.
Seizure Disorders:
TMS may trigger seizures in those who have epilepsy or other seizure-related disorders.
Pregnant Patients:
TMS has not been proven safe during pregnancy therefore it is not recommended for use in those who are pregnant.
Certain Neurological Conditions:
Those with certain neurological or psychiatric disorders should consult their doctors about the use of TMS since brain stimulation could interfere with certain neurological conditions.
Get Treatment at Kaizen Brain Center
We understand how devastating depression can be, and we strive to empower our patients with knowledge and tools to regain control and improve overall health.
At Kaizen Brain Center, we are honored to be one of the few health facilities currently offering SAINT TMS for treatment of depression.
Our team of experts have developed comprehensive services and programs that can help you or your loved one find a remedy that works.
For treatment-resistant depression, consider these treatments at Kaizen Brain Center:
News about SAINT TMS
Magnus Medical launches SAINT neuromodulation system in U.S.
Magnus Medical has launched the SAINT® neuromodulation system as a rapid-acting treatment for Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) that is resistant to traditional medication. This innovative, FDA-approved system utilizes MRI-guided neurostimulation to modify brain activity and is currently implemented in health facilities such as Kaizen Brain Center, MUSC Health, and the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences¹²³. The treatment is designed to be completed in five days and has demonstrated a 79% remission rate in clinical trials, with ongoing studies expected to release further results by 2027¹.
Additionally, the SAINT system has received a breakthrough device designation and is eligible for Medicare and private insurance reimbursements, positioning it as a transformative option for patients²³. With the goal of shifting the treatment paradigm for those unresponsive to standard antidepressants, Magnus Medical aims to deliver meaningful symptom improvements in real-world settings²³.
Summary from NS Medical¹, BioSpace², and Business Wire³