Multimodal Image Analysis and Guidance of Neuromodulation for Trauma-Related Symptoms (MAGNETS)
Abstract
Objectives and Rationale for the Proposed Study and Intervention: Our objective for the proposed project is to study a type of brain stimulation called intermittent theta burst stimulation (iTBS) and whether it is effective for reducing symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in Veterans. We will make several changes to how iTBS is delivered, such as giving more stimulation sessions per day and using brain scans to guide us to the area in the brain with maximum benefit. This study is motivated by the lack of a rapid-acting, highly effective treatment for PTSD, which we believe is needed to help Veterans get better faster and avoid becoming demoralized and hopeless. Focus Area: The FY21 TBIPHRP CTA Focus Area to be addressed by MAGNETS is the Focus Area of (3) Treat, and the Sub-area of (a) Interventions that promote sustained functional recovery, including interventions administered…during the chronic phase of injury. MAGNETS also addresses the area of interest of Personalized medicine approaches to treatment. Ultimate Applicability and Impact of the Research: The Problem to Be Addressed. Military duty, particularly in the recent conflicts in the Middle East, may expose Service Members to physically and psychologically damaging experiences that can leave them suffering from posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Over 20% of returning Service Members are diagnosed with PTSD, leading to worsening depression, pain, substance, and suicidal thinking. Our society has gone to great lengths to provide effective treatments and services for Veterans with PTSD, but the methods currently available require significant time and resources. Many Veterans are disabled by their PTSD and cannot be productive at work, at home, or in relationships. How Does the Research Improve the Treatment of Psychological Health Conditions? With advances in technology that allow us to see how the human brain functions at a microscopic level, we are beginning to understand why PTSD occurs, why the symptoms may become chronic, and how to treat them more effectively. The latest brain imaging studies generally suggest that the brain regions responsible for detecting threats become overactive, while the regions responsible for problem-solving and controlling emotions become underactive. These changes in brain activity are potential causes of the symptoms of PTSD, including feeling scared, withdrawing, being hypervigilant, having nightmares, feeling numb, and having trouble focusing. We have evidence that, if we use magnetic fields to stimulate those parts of the brain, we can change their activity levels and allow them to function more normally. Patients report feeling better in terms of moods and anxiety when this happens. We have learned that we can do this in a very efficient way by delivering treatments up to 10 times a day, over 1 week, with fast results and no increase in side effects. Therefore, our study will help to show how magnetic field can change brain activity in a robust and beneficial way. What Are the Potential Clinical Applications, Benefits, and Risks? iTBS involves magnetic fields enveloping the brain from a coil held against the scalp. In addition to possibly helping with PTSD, iTBS can be used to treat other mood problems and anxiety problems, such as depression and obsessive-compulsive disorder. The iTBS sessions last about 10 minutes each, and generally people start to feel better after 15 to 20 sessions. The sensations of the stimulation on the scalp can be mildly uncomfortable while it is being delivered. Other common side effects include headaches, sleep changes, and energy changes. The most serious side effect that is extremely rare is a seizure (less than 1/10,000 chance). How Will the Proposed Project Benefit Service Members, Veterans, or Military Beneficiaries? If successful, this study will show that rapid improvement from PTSD is possible and that accelerated MRI-guided iTBS h
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Jan 04, 2024
- Source ID
- HT94252311038
Entities
People
- Davin Quinn
Organizations
- Health Sciences Center, University of New Mexico
- United States Army