Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation to treat chronic tinnitus: a feasibility study

This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility, safety and preliminary efficacy of high-frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation for treating chronic subjective tinnitus. Eleven adults (8 males; age: 56.70 +/- 11.42 years, tinnitus duration: 12.43 +/- 7.43 years) were recruited to participate in a pre-registered study. Six treatments were provided over two weeks. Feasibility was determined against pre-specified criteria addressing recruitment, adherence (protocol, 2-week follow-up, 4-week follow-up), and perceived usefulness, helpfulness and acceptability. Adverse events were recorded and preliminary efficacy was assessed using the Tinnitus Handicap Inventory. Five out of seven feasibility criteria were met and no serious adverse events occurred. One participant withdrew from the study due to stimulation being uncomfortable. Preliminary efficacy data indicated a significant effect of Time on tinnitus (p < 0.001). Compared to baseline, tinnitus reduced at mid-treatment (t((9) )= -3.47, p = 0.028) and 4-weeks post treatment (t((9) )= -3.62, p = 0.024). A repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation protocol to manage chronic subjective tinnitus appears feasible, safe, and may have preliminary evidence of effectiveness. The recommendation is to proceed to trial with minor adjustments to gain further insight into the patient experience.