Overview

Intermittent theta-burst stimulation (iTBS), a variant of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS), is a well-documented treatment for depression. The aim of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of an accelerated iTBS protocol (1W-AiTBS) in routine clinical practice. In the accelerated protocol, patients receive 600 pulses per session, for a total of 30 sessions administered over 5-14 treatment days. Patient inclusion will take place over a maximum period of 1.5 years, with a maximum sample size of 150 patients. The target sample size is at least 36 patients. Patients will complete self-rating questionnaires at screening, before and after treatment, and at 6 weeks, 12 weeks, and 6 months from the first day of treatment.

Eligibility

Inclusion Criteria:

• diagnosis of depression verified through a Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview (M.I.N.I.)
• provision of signed informed consent form
• indication for TMS is depression

Exclusion Criteria:

• conductive ferromagnetic or other metals implanted in the head or within 30 cm of the treatment coil
• implanted device that is activated or controlled in any way by physiological signals
• implanted mediation pumps
• intracardiac lines, even when removed
• any condition that seriously increases the risk of non-compliance or loss of follow-up