MeRT℠
MeRT is an innovative treatment based on repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation technology (rTMS) in connection with a q-EEG and EKG that allow healthy brain communication to be restored in patients with autism.
What is Mert?
MeRT℠
MeRT, an acronym for Magnetic eeg/ekg Resonance Therapy, is a technology developed in the United States that is used as a treatment for autism and other neurological and psychiatric pathologies such as depression, anxiety and attention deficit.
It is an alternative non-invasive, pain-free and drug-free therapy that aims to regain the brain’s functionality.
The process begins with a quantitative Electroencephalogram (q-EEG) that registers and analyses the brain’s activity, functioning pattern, and the state of neuronal synchronization. Based on the results, our medical team designs a personalized treatment protocol that aims to stimulate the areas of the brain that could be optimized all while promoting better and more effective brain communication as well as a better quality of life.
Our Process
Before we begin, we conduct an evaluation of the patient and the medical history. Once everything is in order, we then follow with just 4 steps!
The specialist explains the way brain waves function and how MeRT therapy works, in addition to taking a clinical history to get to know the patient.
With the patient’s eyes closed, the specialist performs an electroencephalogram (q-EEG) and an electrocardiogram (EKG) to measure the electrical activity of the brain and heart, and the relationship between the two.
We use a patented approach with your neurophysiological data to develop a customized treatment plan that aims to encourage healthy brain communication.
All MeRT treatment parameters are approved by a licensed neurosurgeon or physician.
While sitting comfortably, a trained technician will position the magnetic coil on your head. This coil will deliver your individualized treatment protocol to the targeted region of the brain.
The technician applies stimulation for 6-8 seconds per minute. A typical appointment is 45 minutes, 30 minutes of which involve stimulation.
Every 10 MeRT sessions, we repeat the q-EEG and EKG to monitor progress and modify the protocol, if necessary. The treating physician meets with the parents to give them a q-EEG report and follow up on the clinical changes that the patient is presenting.
The duration of the treatment will depend on the patient, but it usually takes between 4 to 8 weeks.
As parents, it is challenging to receive a diagnosis of any kind. When we first arrived at BTCA, we met professionals and an incredible human team. We saw more advances in the first two weeks than in the two months we had been in therapy. From week one, we already noticed that Lorenzo was much more aware of himself and others – the progress was tremendous! We are thankful to the entire BTC team; they all have a genuine passion for what they do. We know that we have a long road ahead and that our son only is three years old, but we are where we have to be… BTC gives us a light of big hope to cling to.
Lorenzo's Parents
FAQS about
MeRT℠
Still have questions?
Schedule an appointment and let’s talk about the best plan of action for your family.
It is a non-invasive and painless method that uses a q-EEG to record brain waves. Based on the results, the specialists prepare a personalized protocol for the patient.
The magnetic stimulation process begins by using specialized equipment which seeks to improve the communication of specific areas of the brain to optimize its functioning.
Unlike standard rTMS therapy, which provides stimulation at a fixed location and frequency for all patients, the MeRT approach individualizes the frequency and location of treatment based on each patient’s quantitative EEG and EKG. This results in a customized approach for each MeRT protocol.
MeRT sessions take place in a quiet room with the patient seated in a comfortable chair.
Magnetic pulses are applied to specific areas of the brain. Typically 30 cycles of non-invasive electromagnetic stimulation are performed, delivered for 6 seconds each with 54 seconds of rest between each stimulation.
This process takes approximately 30 minutes and the entire session takes approximately 45 minutes.
Each patient is different, so the response time can vary. There are cases that show noticeable improvements even from the second MeRT session.
After two weeks of therapy, the clinical response and the evolution of the q-EEG are analyzed to assess whether it is considered beneficial to continue with the MeRT protocol immediately or not.
We recommend carrying out at least one month of treatment (20 MeRT treatment sessions) to maintain the observed changes over time.
Results may vary by individual. In general, the longer the duration of the MeRT therapy, the longer the changes will remain, especially if the patient is receiving MeRT therapy for more than a month.
In our experience, changes continue to be seen up to 8-12 months after the therapy has been carried out.
The main goal of the treatment is the functional recovery of the brain. Results are individual in nature.
Some common benefits may include:
- Improvement in eye contact.
- Improvement in language.
- Decrease in stereotypes.
- Advances in the quality and quantity of sleep.
- Decrease of stress symptoms.
- Greater concentration and focus.
- Improvement in mood.
- Increased attention span.
- Greater sociability.
- Greater motivation.
- Improvement in clarity of thought.
- Greater emotional stability.
- Greater ability to adapt to change.
- Improvement in learning.
- Improvement in response times.
- Increased awareness of the world around them.
Each patient is different and represents a unique case. Schedule a meeting with us to define the details and evaluate the budget for the suggested treatment.
The following are absolute contraindications for treatment with MeRT:
- Pacemaker
- Defibrillator
- Vagal nerve stimulator
- VP Shunt / Magnetic Intracranial Shunts
- Deep brain stimulator
- Epidural cortical stimulator; Steel shunts/stents
- Cranial metal fragments (i.e. shrapnel, except titanium)
- Cochlear implant
- Aneurysm clamps, coils, flow diversion tubing
- Pregnant or lactating.
- Primary brain cancer/metastatic lesions in the brain (except palliative care)
- Magnetic dental implants
- Implanted Cardiovascular Defibrillators (ICDs)
- Eye implants
- History of seizures or seizure disorders
- Titanium shunts/stents
- Spinal cord stimulator
- Assistive listening equipment
- Ferrous cortical implants
- Magnetic ink tattoo
- Bipolar Disorder Type I/II
- Baha Implant
