Frequently Asked Questions
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What is PrTMS?
PrTMS (Personalized Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) is a non-invasive treatment that uses magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in the brain. It aims to alleviate the disrupted brain activity associated with symptoms of neurological and psychiatric conditions.
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How does the Spectral Analysis EEG Brain Map work in PrTMS?
The Spectral Analysis EEG Brain Map uses EEG (Electroencephalogram) technology to analyze the brain’s electrical activity. By identifying irregular patterns in brain waves, this mapping pinpoints areas of dysfunction, and important unique brain characteristics allowing for precise and personalized dosing of rTMS treatment.
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Is PrTMS safe?
Yes, PrTMS is considered safe and non-invasive. Side effects are typically mild and temporary, such as fatigue or less frequently a mild headache after treatment during the first week or two. This is most likely related to the workout the brain receives during treatment, similar to your muscles after strength training feeling tired and sore. It is important to consult with our clinical staff to understand potential risks based on individual health conditions.
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How long does a PrTMS treatment session last?
A typical PrTMS session lasts between 25-40 minutes. The exact duration depends on the personalized treatment plan informed by the initial Spectral Analysis EEG Brain Map and ongoing assessments.
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Who can benefit from PrTMS?
PrTMS may benefit individuals dealing with conditions like depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, post-stroke, concussion or brain injury, Long COVID brain fog and depression, memory problems and mild cognitive impairment (MCI), Autism and other neurological or psychiatric conditions associated with brain activity dysfunction. It is often recommended for those who have not experienced sufficient relief with traditional treatments such as medication or therapy.
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How quickly can I expect to see results from PrTMS?
The timeline for results varies. Some individuals notice improvements within a few days to a few weeks, while others may take longer. Regular brain maps throughout the treatment process allow us to tailor the dosing of TMS for optimal outcomes.
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Can PrTMS lead to lasting changes in brain function?
Yes, one of PrTMS’s primary goals is to take advantage of neuroplasticity—the brain’s ability to form new neural connections. This can result in long-lasting improvements in both symptoms and overall brain function.
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What is the difference between conventional rTMS and Personalized rTMS (PrTMS)?
Comparing PrTMS and Standard TMS in Neuromodulation Therapy
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) has become a well-established non-invasive neuromodulation technique for treating refractory psychiatric disorders, particularly major depressive disorder (MDD). Personalized Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (PrTMS) represents an evolution of TMS, incorporating individualized electroencephalogram (EEG) data to tailor stimulation parameters by making small dosing adjustments and augmentation.
TMS involves the application of magnetic fields to induce electric currents in specific cortical regions, modulating neuronal activity. Standard TMS protocols typically utilize fixed stimulation parameters based on normative data, which does, in our experience, account for individual neurophysiological variability. PrTMS introduces a personalized methodology by integrating EEG analysis to customize treatment.
Methodology
- Standard TMS: Utilizes predetermined frequency and intensity settings, targeting regions like the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) based on standardized coordinates.
- PrTMS: Involves spectral analysis EEG assessment (brain map) to identify aberrant neural oscillations and cortical excitability patterns. Stimulation parameters are then adjusted accordingly, including frequency modulation, intensity, and coil positioning, to align with the patient's unique neurophysiological profile.
Clinical Advantages of PrTMS
- Enhanced Targeting Precision: Spectral analysis EEG-guided brain mapping allows for precise identification of dysfunctional neural networks, improving the focality of stimulation.
- Optimized Neuroplasticity: Personalized frequency and intensity settings have clinically proven to more effectively promote synaptic plasticity and long-term potentiation.
- Improved Outcomes: Our clinical experience and preliminary studies show that PrTMS may lead to higher remission rates, more durable treatment outcomes, and faster symptom improvement compared to standard TMS.
- Dynamic Treatment Monitoring: Continuous spectral analysis EEG brain map assessments enable tailored adjustments to TMS dosing, improving responsiveness and neurophysiological changes.
The integration of Spectral analysis EEG data in PrTMS offers a tailored therapeutic approach, potentially addressing the heterogeneity of brain activity dysfunction associated with neuropsychiatric and neurocognitive symptoms. By customizing dosing of neurostimulation, PrTMS has clinically proven to enhance treatment efficacy and reduce non-responder rates observed in standard TMS therapy.
PrTMS represents a small but significant advancement in dosing neuromodulation therapy, emphasizing the importance of personalized medicine. By leveraging spectral analysis EEG insights, PrTMS enhances the precision of TMS, leading to improved clinical outcomes for our patients.
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What is TMS?
Read more about TMS here.
Clinic FAQs
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How is Brain Health Hawaii different from other psychiatry practices?
Brain Health Hawaii: Identifying and Treating Reversible Causes of Disrupted Brain Activity
Experience in measuring and understanding the underlying neurobiology of brain function and mental health is essential for developing effective treatments and achieving optimal outcomes. The brain operates through intricate networks of neurons that communicate via electrical signals, orchestrating cognitive, emotional, and behavioral processes. Suboptimal brain function—manifesting as anxiety, depression, sleep disturbances, focus challenges, or memory problems—often stems from disruptions in these networks, such as altered neural signaling, abnormal connectivity, or impaired neural plasticity. By evaluating both body systems and the neurobiological mechanisms driving these disruptions, we identify intervention targets and design personalized treatment plans tailored to each individual’s unique needs. Our neurobiological and personalized medicine approach follows a structured, step-by-step process designed specifically for you. This includes advanced techniques like spectral analysis, EEG brain mapping, sleep assessments, and targeted biomarker testing to provide a comprehensive understanding of health and dysfunction. By addressing the biological roots of symptoms and underperformance, our holistic strategy transcends one-size-fits-all solutions. Leveraging data-driven neuromodulation techniques, we enhance brain function, support long-term recovery, and foster sustained well-being—empowering you to achieve your full potential.
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What should I expect during my first visit?
Here's what you can expect during your appointment:
- Please remember to bring your ID/Insurance to your appointment.
- This assessment is anticipated to last approximately 1.5 hours to conduct your “brain map” or EEG (Electroencephalogram) and discuss your results and the next steps.
- The EEG process involves completing questionnaires and undergoing the scan.
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Where are you located?
Kahala- We are on the Rooftop of the Kahala Mall at 4211 Waialae Avenue, Suite 1420, Honolulu, HI 96816. From HI-Eastbound, take the Waialae off-ramp. Take a right on Hunakai and a left up the ramp to the rooftop deck of the mall. Once up the ramp, stay slightly right and look for our Brain Health Hawaii sign to the left of Coldwell Banker.
Aiea- We are at the Mary Savio Medical Plaza at 98-1247 Kaahumanu St. Suite 106 Aiea, HI 96701. We also validate parking.
Kailua- We are at the Ohana Osteopathic and Wellness Center, 122 Oneawa St Suite #101 Kailua, HI 96816.Mililani- We are at the Town Center of Mililani behind Times Supermarket.
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What are your cancellation and late policies?
We understand that there may be times when you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment. To best accommodate all our clients, please adhere to the following guidelines:
- Cancellations/Rescheduling: If you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment, please notify us at least 48 hours in advance.
- Late Arrivals: If you arrive 30 minutes or more after your scheduled appointment time, your appointment will be canceled.
- Repeated Cancellations/No-Shows: If you cancel or fail to show up for your appointment within 24 hours on two separate occasions, we may discontinue your services with Brain Health Hawai‘i
Thank you in advance for your understanding. We look forward to engaging in a mutually respectful client/patient relationship.
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What insurance carriers do you accept?
We work with a variety of insurance providers, including HMSA/ HMSA Quest, HMAA, Aetna Medicare, Tricare, Triwest, UHA and other out-of-network carriers, to provide you with the most comprehensive coverage options. Our staff will work closely with you to verify your eligibility, explain your plan's coverage, and guide you through the authorization process.