What is a defining characteristic of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)?

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is characterized by its use of magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in the brain. This non-invasive procedure employs a device that generates magnetic pulses, which can penetrate the skull and induce small electrical currents in specific areas of the brain. This mechanism is particularly utilized to treat conditions such as depression, especially in patients who have not found relief through traditional therapies.

Other options present different characteristics that do not align with TMS. For instance, TMS does not require general anesthesia; it is typically performed with the patient awake and alert, which allows for a quick recovery and immediate resumption of normal activities. Additionally, TMS does not involve the use of direct electrical currents; instead, it relies on magnetic fields to achieve its therapeutic effects. Lastly, TMS is a non-invasive procedure and does not entail surgical interventions or the placement of devices within the brain, unlike options that describe surgical approaches or invasive techniques.