Electroconvulsive Therapy in Depression: Current Practice and Future Direction

Abstract

The current practice of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) has evolved over several decades with the implementation of safer equipment and advancement of techniques. In addition, modifications in the delivery of ECT, such as the utilization of brief and ultrabrief pulse widths and individualization of treatment parameters, have improved the safety of ECT without sacrificing efficacy. This article aims to provide psychiatrists with a balanced, in-depth look into the recent advances in ECT technique as well as the evidence of ECT for managing depression in special populations and patients with comorbid medical problems.

Keywords: Cognitive side effects; Electroconvulsive therapy; Electrode placement; Major depression; Neuromodulation; Review; Treatment-resistant depression.