THE EFFECTIVENESS AND SAFETY OF ELECTROCONVULSIVE THERAPY (ECT)

Abstract

Through a comprehensive literature search, the efficacy and the safety of conventional ECT and some of its more prominent variations in humans were examined. Results of the survey were too disparate for a simplistic summary statement to be made regarding efficacy in all diagnostic categories. Bilateral ECT did present some apparent risk, reduced but not entirely eliminated by precautionary techniques, which must be weighed against the possible benefits to be derived in a given case. Other variations of ECT offered promise of fewer side-effects but must be thoroughly evaluated as to effectiveness before they can be accepted as standard clinical practice.