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ECT in a patient with a deep brain-stimulating electrode in place
F M Moscarillo1, C M Annunziata
1Department of Psychiatry, Sibley Memorial Hospital, Washington, D.C., USA.
The Journal of ECT
|September 27, 2000
Summary
Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) was safely administered to a patient with a deep brain stimulator (DBS) for essential tremor. The treatment improved mood without adverse effects on the DBS device.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Neurosurgery
- Psychiatry
Background:
- Essential tremor is a common neurological disorder.
- Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is an effective treatment for essential tremor.
- Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is a treatment for mood disorders.
Observation:
- A patient with essential tremor treated with DBS required ECT for mood improvement.
- No prior data existed on the safety of ECT in patients with DBS.
Findings:
- ECT was successfully administered to a patient with a DBS device.
- The DBS device was turned off during ECT and turned back on afterward.
- No adverse effects were observed in the patient or on the DBS device.
Implications:
- ECT may be a safe treatment option for patients with DBS.
- Further research is needed to confirm the safety and efficacy of ECT with DBS.