Structural and functional neuroimaging of electroconvulsive therapy and transcranial magnetic stimulation

Neuroimaging has long been utilized to provide a measure of the effects of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) on brain structure and function as well as to better understand its mechanisms of action. In a similar-fashion, functi onal neuroimaging may provide the means to elucidate both the underlying ne urobiological effects and therapeutic potential of transcranial magnetic st imulation (TMS). This article will review findings of neuroimaging studies of both TMS and ECT; concentrating on how such studies may help guide treat ment. (C) 2000 Wiley-Liss, Inc.