Summary and Comments:
The development of TMS devices for the treatment of Migraine is a prime example of how basic research into the cause and physiology of Migraine disease results in more and better treatment options. The old vascular theory of Migraine was that Migraine attacks begin with vasoconstriction (narrowing of the blood vessels of the brain), followed by vasodilation (widening of those blood vessels). By the late 1990s, research had shown that the vasoconstriction and dilation occurred as a result of electrical hyperexcitability in the brain.
It is anticipated that the results of the studies conducted to date may result in this portable TMS device being approved by the FDA for the treatment of Migraine as early as the end of this year.
Further studies are needed to develop a method of using this technology in the treatment of Migraine without aura.
To view a video about the device and see it in action, click the video icon to the left.
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Resources:
1 Interview. Teri Robert with Richard B. Lipton, MD, Professor of Neurology at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine and study lead investigator. July 12, 2008.
2 Lipton, R.B.; Dodick, D.W.; Goadsby, P.J.; Saper, J.R.; Silberstein, S.D.; Aurora, S.K.; Mohammad, Y.M.; Ruppel, P.L.; Fischell, R.E. "Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) Using a Portable Device is Effective for the Acute Treatment of Migraine with Aura: Results of a DoubleBlind, Sham Controlled, Randomized Study." Research presentation, 50th annual scientific meeting of American Headache Society. Boston. June 27, 2008.
3 Press release. "Portable Device Effective in Zapping Away Migraine Pain." The Ohio State University. Columbus. June 26, 2008.
© Teri Robert, 2008.
Last updated July 14, 2008.
