Alzheimer’s disease, a devastating neurodegenerative condition affecting millions worldwide, has found a glimmer of hope with a groundbreaking treatment offered by Dr. Daniel Casey, Interventional Psychiatrist at the Oxford TPS Clinic.
Alzheimer’s disease is marked by the accumulation of abnormal proteins, namely amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles within the brain. These structural changes disrupt cerebral blood flow and impact the distribution of essential neurotrophic factors, such as Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF), which play a pivotal role in brain function.
Storz Medical have created the Neurolith, a groundbreaking medical device which aims to alleviate some symptoms of Alzheimer’s and possibly delay cognitive decline. The therapy, called Transcranial Pulse Stimulation (TPS), is completely non-invasive and involves passing high frequency acoustic waves, very similar to the shockwaves used in Storz Medical shockwave therapy devices, through the skull and into the brain to stimulate neural growth factors.
Studies by researchers at the University of Vienna have shown that just six 30-minute treatments over two weeks can improve mild to moderate Alzheimer’s by up to 10 points on the CERAD scale. The CERAD corrected total score (CTS) as the major global outcome parameter for the patients’ cognitive state improved significantly after six 30 minute treatments over two weeks and remained stable over three months. However, further large scale trials and long-term follow-up are required. Patients have seen noticeable and measurable improvements in memory, verbal function and depression.
Furthermore, this groundbreaking treatment has demonstrated alleviation of symptoms of depression among Alzheimer’s patients. The stimulation of BDNF, a critical component of the procedure, is thought to be associated with improved mood and a reduction in depressive symptoms in individuals grappling with Alzheimer’s disease. This dual benefit, enhancing cognitive function and mitigating depression, offers a comprehensive approach to enhancing the quality of life for Alzheimer’s patients.
The treatment, which employs the Neurolith system supplied by Venn Healthcare Ltd, is entirely non-invasive and does not necessitate the use of medication or hair shaving. Patients remain awake throughout the comfortable and painless treatment sessions, which typically extend over just two weeks (2 treatments per week).
Dr. Daniel Casey, who completed a Fellowship in Interventional Psychiatry in Oxford, possesses a deep commitment to assisting patients dealing with memory problems and neuropsychiatric symptoms. Currently, he is engaged in a research project in collaboration with Dr. Eva Feredoes at the University of Reading, with a focus on the clinical applications of TPS. Dr. Casey holds a Master’s degree in Neuroscience and is affiliated with esteemed medical organisations, including the Clinical TMS Society, the Royal College of Psychiatrists (MRCPsych), and the Royal College of Physicians of London (MRCP Lon).
The Oxford TPS Clinic is also supported by Dr. Marco Fabus, a graduate medic at the University of Oxford, boasting a robust background in medical research and neuroscience.
Nestled amidst the tranquil surroundings of Howbery Park in Wallingford, the Oxford TPS Clinic extends its services for the assessment and treatment of individuals grappling with memory problems. This groundbreaking treatment, which obtained regulatory approval in 2021, is available as a supplementary approach to the standard care provided for Alzheimer’s. Additionally, the clinic houses a “real-world” research initiative, in collaboration with the University of Reading, aimed at assessing the efficacy of TPS.
For individuals traveling from abroad, there are plenty of accommodation options available in the nearby city of Oxford, making the journey to the clinic both accessible and convenient.
If you or a loved one is seeking more information about NeuroPulse™ TPS® or wishes to enquire about its suitability, please do not hesitate to get in touch with the Oxford TPS Clinic.
By Sarah Campbell, Marketing Director at Venn Healthcare Ltd