Evaluation of the Clinical Effectiveness of High Frequency Left Prefrontal Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) versus Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) in the Treatment-Resistant Depression (TRD)

Abstract

Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) is a highly prevalent, persistent, and disabling mental illness. Statistically, the lifetime prevalence of depression is 17%, but only 6% of those living with depression receive standard treatments. ECT has a long track record of success; it is one of the oldest forms of treatment for TRD. On the other hand, rTMS is a non-invasive, painless stimulation of the Central Nervous System (CNS) used to treat TRD.