The UAMS Psychiatric Research Institute is a one-of-a-kind facility, created to treat and study various forms of mental illness. Our highly qualified staff has the experience and knowledge necessary to care for patients of all ages, no matter what kind of challenges they are facing.

The Psychiatric Research Institute (PRI) is one of the first facilities in the nation to partner with Magnus Medical, Inc., to implement the SAINT® neuromodulation system, an innovative, one-of-a-kind therapy for treatment-resistant depression. The SAINT system uses magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to pinpoint the optimal anatomical target for precise transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) in individuals with major depression. The targeting process helps identify the location and correct stimulation dosing for each patient. A specialized pattern of magnetic pulses is then delivered to cause neurons to fire and rebuild connectivity.

The SAINT treatment protocol at PRI relies on the unique capabilities of the Helen L. Porter and James T. Dyke Brain Imaging Research Center’s MRI scanner. The MRI scan, which takes approximately 45 minutes, will occur prior to treatment. Using the MRI scan, the individual patient’s optimal treatment target is mapped by Magnus’ technology. SAINT treatment consists of 10 sessions per day for five consecutive days. Each session includes 10 minutes of stimulation followed by a 50-minute rest period. Treatment is non-invasive, and the most common side effect is headache.

Read an American Journal of Psychiatry article about SAINT.

Patients can potentially start experiencing symptom relief within days (versus weeks when standard TMS protocols are used). In a double-blinded randomized controlled trial (RCT) evaluating SAINT, 79 percent of people in the active treatment group experienced remission of their depression symptoms following the five-day treatment protocol, compared to people in the control group (13 percent remission rate) who received a “sham” (placebo) treatment.

Patient referrals should be faxed to 501-603-1897. Call 501-526-6498 or 501-526-8614 to set up a consultation.