Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation for neuropathic pain
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) in the long-term management of chronic neuropathic pain – an observational study
IRAS ID
165191
Contact name
Sumit Gulati
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Walton Centre NHS Trust
Duration of Study in the UK
2 years, 0 months, 0 days
Research summary
The purpose of the study is to evaluate the long-term maintenance of effectiveness and tolerability of repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) in the management of chronic neuropathic pain. Stimulation of the motor cortex of the brain is known to lead to analgesia. TMS uses electromagnetic induction to produce electric currents in the cortex. In clinical practice, TMS is administered using a coil placed on the patient's scalp overlying the motor cortex to deliver trains of magnetic pulses (repetitive TMS, rTMS). Pain relief achieved usually lasts 1-4 weeks before the pain starts to re-emerge. The present study proposal is prompted by the experience of previous three studies on these patients who were considered as responders. Some of them opted for continuation of rTMS sessions after end of the study. They reported only minor side effects (temporary headache, sleepiness and short-lived dizziness). The proposed study is an open label observational effectiveness study, focusing on maintenance of pain control, as well as safety, over two years in a selected population of patients who have successfully received TMS in the past. The primary outcome is change in pain intensity based on patients' pain diary ratings. Secondary outcomes consist of changes in pain unpleasantness, mood, functionality and quality of life.
REC name
North West - Greater Manchester East Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
14/NW/1501
Date of REC Opinion
23 Dec 2014
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion