Other Forms of Neuromodulation

TNS (Trigiminal Nerve Stimulation) demonstration of the handheld device by Dr Mohamed Abdelghani at London TMS Centre

TMS is a form of non-invasive neuromodulation. Other forms of neuromodulation are also available and some of them are building strong evidence in scientific research to support their use in clinical practice in some cases.

At London TMS Centre we are passionate about exploring all forms of treatments and different neuromodulation modalities that can help our patients to recover and regain control of their lives.

However, it is important to know that that none of these other forms of non-invasive neuromodulation has the same level of strong evidence to support it if compared to TMS. In other words none of these neuromodulation techniques is the same league with TMS.

Our promise in London TMS Centre is that our experts will always discuss honestly and openly with you the pros and cons of these different techniques in order to help you to make an informed decision about your treatment.

Other neuromodulation treatment modalities available at our centre are:

TNS (Trigiminal Nerve Stimulation)

TNS is a non-invasive form of neuromodulation. It uses a handheld device (Monarch®) that individuals can use at home. The device is connected with thin wires to an adhesive patch that is placed over the patient’s forehead. Patients are usually advised to have the stimulation from the device for 8 hours during sleep.

Monarch® device received the European CE Mark in November 2015 and FDA clearance in April 2019 as a medical device for the treatment of paediatric ADHD.

TNS has been tested as a possible treatment for a number of psychiatric and neurological conditions, such as, depression, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), epilepsy and Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI).

Some of these studies showed very good and promising clinical results in treating mental health conditions such as; depression and ADHD.

Dr Abdelghani has experience in using TNS and he was one of the first Psychiatrists to introduce this new treatment modality to patients in the UK.

Flow (tDCS – transcranial Direct Current Stimulation)

tDCS is a non-invasive and non-pharmacological form of neurostimulation. The Flow tDCS device is Bluetooth controlled and managed through the Flow depression app. It is available through a medical device that can be used at home. The flow headset has European CE mark.

tDCS has been used in research settings for a number of years. Results of some of these studies are quite promising and indicates that tDCS can be a possible treatment option for patients suffering with depression.

tDCS works by delivering a weak direct electrical current to specific areas of brain via electrodes placed on the scalp. It helps the cortex of the brain become more easily excited.

Dr Abdelghani is happy to discuss with patients the pros and cons of different neuromodulation treatment modalities, including Flow tDCS.