Advances in repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation for posttraumatic stress disorder: A systematic review

Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) as a treatment for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) has gained interest over the past two decades. However, it yet to be recommended in major guidelines. We conducted systematic review of randomized controlled trials examine efficacy rTMS PTSD. Thirteen studies with 549 participants were included this review. compared effects (1) versus sham, and (2) high-frequency (HF) low-frequency (LF) rTMS, on posttreatment PTSD scores other secondary outcomes. calculated standardized mean differences (SMD) determine direction effects, unstandardized estimate magnitude efficacy. At post-treatment, was superior sham comparison reducing (SMD = ?1.13, 95% CI: ?2.10 ?0.15) depression severity ?0.83, ?1.30 ?0.36). The quality evidence, however, rated very low due small samples sizes, heterogeneity, inconsistent results, an imprecise pooled effect. HF associated slightly improved, albeit imprecise, outcomes LF ?0.19, ?1.39 1.00) ?1.09, ?1.65 ?0.52) severity. Further research is required advance evidence treatment.