Theta Burst Stimulation — Faster TMS, Comparable Results
Theta Burst Stimulation (TBS) is an advanced TMS protocol delivering the therapeutic effects of standard rTMS in as little as 3–7 minutes per session. FDA-cleared for MDD, TBS has demonstrated non-inferiority to traditional rTMS in rigorous clinical trials.
The same therapeutic mechanism. A fraction of the session time.
Traditional repetitive TMS (rTMS) delivers 10 Hz pulses over 20–37 minutes per session. Theta Burst Stimulation delivers pulses in 50 Hz triplet "bursts" at 5 Hz intervals — mimicking the brain's natural theta rhythm. This compressed pattern stimulates the same neural circuits in 3–7 minutes.
The FDA cleared intermittent Theta Burst Stimulation (iTBS) for MDD in 2018. The THREE-D trial (published in The Lancet, 2019, n=414) demonstrated non-inferiority of iTBS vs. standard rTMS — establishing TBS as equally effective for the majority of patients, with a significantly shorter session duration.
| Factor | Standard rTMS | Theta Burst (iTBS) |
|---|---|---|
| Session duration | 20–37 minutes | 3–7 minutes |
| FDA clearance | 2008 (MDD) | 2018 (MDD) |
| Clinical evidence | 58% response rate in TRD | Non-inferior — comparable to rTMS |
| Pulses per session | ~3,000 | ~600 (higher Hz bursts) |
| Sessions per course | 36 over 4–6 weeks | 36 over 4–6 weeks |
| Best for | Standard protocol, broad insurance coverage | Demanding schedules, faster sessions |
TBS protocol availability depends on your clinical profile and insurance plan. Ask about TBS at your free consultation. Call (719) 602-0622.
TBS coverage follows the same MDD + prior medication trial criteria as standard rTMS. Some plans cover it under the existing TMS benefit; others require specific TBS authorization. We verify your plan before scheduling.
Ask about Theta Burst Stimulation at your free consultation.
We determine whether TBS or standard rTMS best fits your clinical situation and schedule.