Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a non-invasive brain stimulation technique that is widely used in cognitive neuroscience and clinical research. The Center for Cognitive and Behavioral Brain Imaging (CCBBI) at The Ohio State University has acquired a MagVenture TMS system to support cutting-edge research in this area. This manual provides a centralized resource to guide investigators and staff in the safe and effective use of TMS at CCBBI.
Overview of the MagVenture TMS System
The CCBBI TMS facility includes a Magventure MagPro X100 Magnetic Stimulator, C-B60 Butterfly and Cool-B65 Figure-8 coils, an adjustable Superflex Arm for precise coil positioning, and a Localite TMS Navigator system (Research Premium Edition) for MRI-based neuronavigation. These resources are maintained by the center and are available to all CCBBI-affiliated investigators. While priority is given to internal CCBBI users, the system is available to approved users on a first-come, first-served basis. Please note that the TMS system at CCBBI is intended for use only with adult participants who are capable of providing informed consent.
Purpose of the Manual
This manual is designed to serve several purposes:
- To provide safety guidelines and emergency protocols for TMS research sessions
- To outline the process for study approval, including institutional and center-level requirements
- To describe procedures for reserving the TMS testing room and scheduling study sessions
- To define training and certification standards for research personnel using the TMS system
- To ensure that all research personnel understand the responsibilities, risks, and safeguards associated with TMS
Researchers are expected to familiarize themselves with all aspects of this manual and complete necessary training and documentation prior to initiating TMS studies. The content herein reflects best practices, local policies, and nationally recognized safety recommendations for TMS research.
Key Contacts for Technical and Safety Questions
For questions regarding administrative and procedural processes, please contact Dr. Tram (tram.1@osu.edu). For technical and safety questions, please contact Dr. Li (li.2327@osu.edu) or Dr. Gorka (gorka.21@osu.edu). General inquiries can be directed to CCBBI Service (ccbbi.service@osu.edu).
CCBBI TMS Safety Consultants
CCBBI has established a partnership with internationally recognized transcranial magnetic stimulation experts, Dr. Josh Hubregsen and Dr. Shawn McClintock, from UT Southwestern Medical Center. Drs. Hubregsen and McClintock bring extensive expertise in TMS research and have served in key roles overseeing the safe operation of TMS equipment across research and clinical settings.
Notably, Dr. McClintock is an affiliated faculty member in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at Duke University, where he teaches the TMS safety course as part of Duke’s formal TMS training program. As part of this collaboration, Drs. Hubregsen and McClintock will serve as external reviewers, providing an added layer of safety oversight for all TMS proposals submitted to CCBBI.