Why is this procedure done?
Electroconvulsive therapy is known as ECT. During ECT, a small electric shock is sent to your brain. This causes a seizure. ECT is most often done to treat low mood that has not improved with drugs or talk therapy. ‚
It is not clear how or why ECT works. It is thought that ECT changes the chemicals in your brain during and after the seizure. These changes let the brain cells work better. The signs of low mood decrease and mood gets better. ‚
What will the results be?
How long it takes to feel better is different for each person. You may begin to feel better after two or three treatments. Returning to your normal self may take longer. Even after your signs get better, you may need ongoing treatment to prevent a return of your signs. Ongoing treatment does not have to be ECT, but it can be. Often, it includes drugs and talk therapy. ‚
What happens before the procedure?
- The doctor will tell you about the benefits and risks of ECT. You will be asked to sign a form that says you understand what ECT involves and that your questions were answered.
- Your doctor will take your history. Talk to the doctor about:
- All the drugs you are taking. Be sure to include all prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, and herbal supplements. Tell the doctor about any drug allergy. Bring a list of drugs you take with you.
- Any bleeding problems. Be sure to tell your doctor if you are taking any drugs that may cause bleeding. Some of these are Coumadin ‚ ®, ibuprofen, Aleve ‚ ® (naproxen), or aspirin. Certain vitamins and herbs, such as garlic and fish oil, may also add to the risk for bleeding. You may need to stop these drugs as well. Talk to your doctor about them.
- When you need to stop eating or drinking before your ECT.
- You will not be allowed to drive right away after the ECT. Ask a family member or a friend to drive you home.
- Your doctor will do an exam and may order:
- Lab tests
- X-ray
- Electrocardiogram, called an ECG
What happens during the procedure?
- Once you are in the operating room, you will be given a drug to make you sleepy. It will also help you stay pain free during the ECT. The staff will put an I.V. in your arm to give you fluids and drugs. They will also closely watch your heart rate, breathing, and blood pressure.
- The doctor will put a small sticky pad on the side of your forehead. The shock can be given on one side (unilateral) or both sides (bilateral) of your brain. The doctor will say which type will help the most.
- When you are relaxed, the doctor pushes a button and causes a small amount of electricity to be passed through the electrodes into your brain. This causes a seizure.
- The seizure most often lasts for 35 to 80 seconds. This will be timed and recorded by the doctor.
- You will not be aware of the seizure since you are asleep.
- The treatment most often takes 10 to 15 minutes.
What happens after the procedure?
- You will go to the Recovery Room and the staff will watch you closely. The doctor may give you extra oxygen from a nasal tube or mask.
- Once awake, staff will ask questions about your response to treatment. You may have a headache, slight weakness, or a dizzy feeling. The doctor may give a mild pain reliever if a headache happens. It is also normal to be a bit confused and sleepy. You may also have an upset stomach.
- You will not be able to drive for the rest of the day.
What problems could happen?
- Changes in blood pressure and heart rate
- Headache
- Upset stomach
- Muscle pain or soreness
- Trouble thinking or making decisions
- Memory loss, most often short term
Where can I learn more?
Better Health Channel ‚
http://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/bhcv2/bhcarticles.nsf/pages/Electroconvulsive_therapy ‚
Mental Health America ‚
http://www.nmha.org/go/information/get-info/treatment/electroconvulsive-therapy-ect ‚
National Institute of Mental Health ‚
http://nihseniorhealth.gov/depression/electroconvulsivetherapy/01.html ‚
Up to Date ‚
http://www.uptodate.com/contents/electroconvulsive-therapy-ect-beyond-the-basics ‚
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
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Copyright ‚ © 2015 Clinical Drug Information, LLC and Lexi-Comp, Inc. ‚