What is ultra brief pulse ECT?
What is ultra brief pulse ECT?
Ultrabrief pulse stimulation is a new advance in electroconvulsive therapy and results in more focal stimulation. An ultrabrief pulse given in the right unilateral position retains the high efficacy of standard electroconvulsive therapy for depression. Cognitive adverse effects are greatly reduced.
What does pulse width mean ECT?
Thus brief pulse widths (typically 1.0 ms) are now standard in modern clinical ECT practice. Neurophysiological observations indicate, however, that the ideal pulse width for neuronal stimulation is in the order of 0.1–0.2 ms.
Do you need an ECG before ECT?
Useful clues to differentiate may be increased troponin levels and previous anginal complaints. Finally we suggest that shortly before ECT, a 12-lead ECG should be performed.
How many rounds of ECT is normal?
Typically, ECT (whether inpatient or outpatient) is given two to three times a week for a total of six to twelve sessions. Some patients may need more or fewer treatments. These sessions improve depression in 70 to 90 percent of patients, a response rate much higher than that of antidepressant drugs.
Where are electrodes placed for ECT?
In bilateral ECT, one electrode is placed on the left side of the head, the other on the right side. In unilateral ECT, one electrode is placed at the top (vertex) of the head and the other typically on the right side.
What medications are given during ECT?
The ideal induction agent for ECT is an agent with low anticonvulsant properties, rapid onset of action, short duration of action with a good safety and tolerability profile. The most commonly used agents for induction are propofol, thiopental, methohexital, etomidate, ketamine, alfentanil and remifentanil.
Can ECT damage your brain?
The review of literature and present evidence suggests that ECT has a demonstrable impact on the structure and function of the brain. However, there is a lack of evidence at present to suggest that ECT causes brain damage.
Why is ECT so controversial?
Reasons for Controversy Three reasons are given for the aversion: 1) ECT is considered old-fashioned and politically incorrect; 2) it is forced on the patient; and 3) the memory disturbances are so severe and persistent that no rational human being would undergo this procedure, no matter how well-intended.
What medication is given before ECT?
Who is not a good candidate for ECT?
For example, children under age eleven cannot undergo ECT for mental health disorders. People with heart conditions and people who cannot handle short-acting sedatives or muscle relaxers should not undergo ECT treatments. In pregnant patients, ECT does not pose any serious risk to the fetus, or the expectant mother.
Do they intubate for ECT?
Patients are not intubated for ECT, except under extremely rare circumstances. An intravenous line is inserted in the patient’s arm, through which the anesthetic and muscle relaxant medications are administered.