Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) in Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder: Study Protocol of a Nationwide Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial of Neuro-Enhanced Psychotherapy "TraumaStim"

Overview

Journal Brain Sci

Publisher MDPI

Date 2023 Sep 28

PMID 37759875

Authors

Florian Ferreri

Stephane Mouchabac

Vincent Sylvestre

Bruno Millet

Wissam El Hage

Vladimir Adrien

Alexis Bourla

Affiliations

Soon will be listed here.

Abstract

The use of high-frequency Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (HF-rTMS) of the right dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) in treating Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is currently regarded as a level B intervention (probable effectiveness). HF-rTMS has attracted interest as a neuromodulation therapeutic method for PTSD. Prolonged exposure and reactivation therapy are also regarded as first-line treatments for PTSD. Randomized controlled clinical studies examining the effectiveness of several HF-rTMS sessions coupled with psychotherapy have not yet been completed. In total, 102 patients with refractory PTSD will be randomly assigned (1:1) to reactivation therapy, in addition to either active HF-rTMS (20 Hz) or sham HF-rTMS, for 12 sessions in a nationwide, multicenter, double-blind controlled trial. The impact on PTSD symptoms and neurocognitive functioning will be assessed. The primary outcome is the PTSD severity score measured based on the Clinician-Administered PTSD Scale (CAPS-5) at one month. If this additional therapy is successful, it may strengthen the case for regulatory authorities to approve this additional technique of treating PTSD. Additionally, it expands the field of neurostimulation-assisted psychotherapy.

Citing Articles

Engineering and Technological Advancements in Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS): A Five-Year Review.

Tubbs A, Vazquez E Brain Sci. 2024; 14(11).

PMID: 39595855 PMC: 11591941. DOI: 10.3390/brainsci14111092.

Enhancing Agency in Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Therapies Through Sensorimotor Technologies.

Adrien V, Bosc N, Peccia Galletto C, Diot T, Claverie D, Reggente N J Med Internet Res. 2024; 26:e58390.

PMID: 38742989 PMC: 11250045. DOI: 10.2196/58390.

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