TMS

Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is a fairly new technology that is currently undergoing evaluation as an alternative to ECT and antidepressants.  Initial studies have shown some potential, however, enough evidence has yet to be collated to support it’s use.

In TMS, an insulated coil containing a current is held to the side of the head.  The magnetic field produced by the current is designed to stimulate certain sections of the brain.  When the current is rapidly fluctuated, the magnetic field causes tiny secondary currents in the brain. There is no need for a general anaesthetic.

A study conducted by Professor S Pridmore at the Royal Hobart Hospital in Tasmania suggests that under certain circumstances, TMS can achieve results similar to ECT, without the negative impact on memory.

It is likely to be a number of years before enough evidence is compiled to support TMS use as an alternative to ECT and antidepressants.

References:

Black Dog Institute 

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation in Psychiatry
Mark S George & Robert H. Belmaker
2000

A Naturalistic Study of Response in Melancholia to Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)
Saxby Pridmore and others
2000