An international survey of different transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) protocols for patients with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)

This study aims to evaluate current preferences and trends in the delivery of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). A 10-item online questionnaire was developed and conducted online between April to June 2020, surveying providers of TMS for patients with OCD internationally. A total of 27 valid responses were analysed from 10 countries. The most common target for TMS was the supplementary motor area and stimulation was commonly given bilaterally, but techniques differed between centres. Exposure tasks were not commonly used during TMS. The study calls for more research clarifying the best mode of TMS delivery for OCD.

Automated summary

This study analyzed responses from providers of TMS for patients with OCD internationally. The most common target area for TMS was the supplementary motor area and bilateral stimulation was common, although techniques varied between centers. Additionally, exposure tasks were not commonly used during TMS. The study concluded that more research is needed to clarify the best mode of TMS delivery for OCD.