Is every EEG system TMS compatible?

By Cortech Admin | October 19, 2017 |
A

Is every EEG system TMS compatible?

No.  There are a few special attributes that are required and others that are desirable.

Required attributes:

  • Inputs should be protected so that they are not damaged by the TMS pulse
  • Frequency response on all channels should be from DC on the low end, since AC coupled inputs will “ring” when presented with a large voltage transient like the TMS artifact

Desirable attributes:

  • Electrodes should have a low-profile so that the TMS coil can be placed as near the head as possible, maximizing penetration depth and current delivery
  • It is important for the EEG system to be able to trigger the TMS system at precisely the same phase with respect to the EEG samples each time a stimulus is delivered.  This will improve the performance of artifact removal algorithms

Aside from these attributes of the EEG system, there are also important considerations regarding the TMS system in this relationship. See the other FAQ entry on that topic.

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