Neuronetics – Technology Pioneer of 2011

Added by David Sandercock on September 1, 2010

At this year’s World Economic Forum, Neuronetics, the maker of the Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) also known as the NeuroStar TMS Therapy system, has been given the title of the 2011 Technology Pioneer.

The NeuroStar TMS Therapy system created by Neuronetics is the first non-invasive and non-systemic device for transcranial magnetic stimulation approved by the US FDA for treating major depressive disorders. The therapy system was cleared back in October, 2008. Adults that suffer from major depressive disorders and that haven’t taken any adequate antidepressants prior to the new therapy can be treated.

The innovation in the NeuroStar TMS Therapy system is that it consists of a form of neuromodulation that is both non-invasive and non-systemic, meaning that it does not require surgery and that it doesn’t pass through the bloodstream. The therapy system is based on stimulating the nerve cells near the brain area that are known to be either responsible or connected to depression. The stimulation is done by sending MRI magnetic field pulses that are highly focused on the area.

The World Economic Forum only gives the title of Technology Pioneers to companies that apply and develop the most advanced and innovative technology and that will most likely impact both the society and the business world in the near future.