Parkinson’s disease, a degenerative neurological condition that impacts millions globally, has always posed difficulties in managing symptoms and developing new treatments. Advancements in neuromodulation technologies in recent years have provided new opportunities for patients looking to alleviate its severe impacts. Leading the way in these advancements is BrainsWay, under the leadership of CEO Hadar Levy. Bravely led by him, BrainsWay has been at the forefront of developing Deep Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (Deep TMS), an innovative treatment approach that has displayed great potential in treating both motor and non-motor symptoms, providing optimism for enhanced quality of life and ongoing support.
Let’s delve into the interview details below!
Can you share your journey in becoming a leading provider in Parkinson’s disease treatment? What inspired you to focus on this particular area of neurology?
Brainsway has made significant strides toward becoming a leading provider in Parkinson’s disease treatment through its Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) technology, with a broader focus on brain disorders. The company initially gained recognition with FDA clearances for major depressive disorder (MDD) and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). These early approvals established Brainsway’s presence in the neuromodulation space, enabling expansion into other conditions, including neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson’s and stroke rehabilitation.
The growing recognition of the role that neuromodulation can play in treating complex brain disorders inspired me to focus on this area. Neurology has traditionally had limited treatment options for conditions like depression, OCD, and Parkinson’s, where many patients struggle with medication side effects or inadequate response rates. TMS technology, in particular, represents a promising alternative by targeting specific brain regions to modulate activity, offering a non-invasive approach with fewer side effects.
Seeing the tangible impact on patients’ lives, especially for those with limited options, has been incredibly motivating. It’s an exciting time to contribute to advancing the field, especially as we see Deep TMS’s potential broadening to include neurodegenerative diseases and stroke rehabilitation. It’s rewarding to be part of a movement that could redefine treatment possibilities and expand access to effective therapies across a range of neurological conditions. While Brainsway’s TMS technology for Parkinson’s is cleared in the EU, it has not yet received FDA clearance in the United States.
In your experience, what are the most significant advancements in Parkinson’s disease treatment that have emerged in recent years?
Recent advancements in Parkinson’s disease treatment range from symptomatic relief to potentially disease-modifying therapies. From gene and stem cell therapies to innovative drug formulations and non-invasive brain stimulation, these emerging treatments aim to improve both the quality of life for patients and the long-term outcomes by addressing the disease’s root causes. Together, these advancements reflect a shift toward more personalized, holistic, and potentially disease-modifying approaches for managing Parkinson’s disease. As research continues, these innovations hold promise for enhancing the lives of those living with Parkinson’s and may ultimately lead to breakthroughs in disease-modifying treatments.
Deep TMS have emerged as potential therapies for improving motor symptoms by stimulating specific brain regions non-invasively.
How does your approach to treating Parkinson’s disease differ from traditional methods, and what unique strategies do you employ at your practice?
Deep TMS offers a non-invasive, customizable approach to treating Parkinson’s disease that can address both motor and non-motor symptoms with fewer side effects compared to traditional methods like medication or DBS. The unique strategies employed at many practices, such as a multidisciplinary approach, focus on personalized, patient-centric care, making Deep TMS a promising alternative or complementary option in the management of Parkinson’s disease.Deep Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (Deep TMS) differs from traditional Parkinson’s disease treatments in both its mechanism of action and its non-invasive nature.
Can you discuss any innovative technologies or therapies you’ve implemented that have shown promising results in managing Parkinson’s symptoms?
Deep TMS has shown great promise in managing both motor and non-motor symptoms in Parkinson’s patients. By targeting deeper brain regions, it offers a non-invasive, effective treatment option with a good safety profile and the potential for long-term symptom relief. With ongoing research, Deep TMS continues to gain recognition as a valuable tool in the management of Parkinson’s disease, either as a stand-alone treatment or in conjunction with other therapies.
How do you personalize treatment plans for your Parkinson’s patients, considering the disease’s varied manifestations and progression rates?
Personalizing Deep TMS treatment for Parkinson’s patients requires a multifaceted approach that considers the disease’s varied symptoms and progression rates. By tailoring treatment parameters, targeting specific brain regions, adjusting frequency, and incorporating patient feedback, Deep TMS offers a flexible and individualized option for managing Parkinson’s symptoms. This personalized approach enhances both motor function and non-motor aspects, improving the overall quality of life for each patient.
What role does patient education play in your practice, and how do you ensure that patients and their families are well-informed about the disease and its management?
Patient education plays a crucial role in practices offering Deep Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (Deep TMS) for Parkinson’s disease, as it helps patients and their families make informed decisions about treatment and empowers them to actively participate in managing the disease. Incorporating patient education into Deep TMS treatment for Parkinson’s ensures that patients and their families are well-informed about both the disease and its management. By providing clear, personalized education and maintaining open communication, practices help empower patients to take an active role in their care, make informed decisions, and optimize their outcomes with Deep TMS. This patient-centered approach not only improves the treatment experience but also enhances overall quality of life for both the patient and their support system.
Looking ahead, what developments in Parkinson’s disease treatment do you anticipate will have the most significant impact in the next 5-10 years?
- Personalized Neuromodulation Protocols – Individualized stimulation patterns: Advances in machine learning and artificial intelligence (AI) are expected to allow for the development of personalized Deep TMS protocols. Integration with Pharmacological and Gene Therapies.
- Neuroplasticity Enhancement: One of the most exciting areas of development is the ability of Deep TMS to promote neuroplasticity—the brain’s ability to rewire and form new connections. Future protocols may aim to enhance the neuroplastic effects of TMS to not only manage symptoms but potentially slow disease progression or even restore lost motor functions.
- Advanced Biomarkers for Early Detection and Intervention.
- Portable and At-Home Deep TMS Devices.
The next 5-10 years hold exciting possibilities for the evolution of Deep TMS in Parkinson’s treatment. With advancements in personalized neuromodulation, AI integration, combination therapies, and neuroprotective strategies, Deep TMS may become an even more effective and versatile tool. These innovations could not only improve symptom management but also slow disease progression, enhance cognitive function, and significantly improve the quality of life for Parkinson’s patients.
What advice would you give to neurologists or healthcare providers who aspire to become leading experts in Parkinson’s disease treatment?
Becoming a leading expert in Parkinson’s disease treatment requires a combination of in-depth knowledge, technological proficiency, and a patient-centered, multidisciplinary approach. By staying at the forefront of neuromodulation technologies like Deep TMS, actively engaging in research, and committing to compassionate, personalized care, neurologists and healthcare providers can build a reputation as leaders in the Parkinson’s community while delivering better outcomes for their patients.
Here’s the advice I would offer to neurologists and healthcare providers who aspire to become leading experts in Parkinson’s disease treatment:
- Build a Strong Foundation in Parkinson’s Pathophysiology.
- Develop Expertise in Multidisciplinary Care.
- Specialize in non-invasive therapies like Deep TMS.
- Tailor treatment to individual patient needs with patient-centered communication.
- Leverage AI and digital health tools.
- Provide Long-Term, Compassionate Care.
By committing to these principles, healthcare providers can have a meaningful impact on the lives of those living with Parkinson’s and contribute to the evolving landscape of treatment.
