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Published on: July 9, 2017
[Electroconvulsive therapy in Denmark 1999. A nation-wide questionnaire study]
John-Erik Andersson1, Tom G Bolwig
1Psykiatrisk afdeling E, H:S Bispebjerg Hospital, DK-København.
Ugeskrift for Laeger
|July 18, 2002
Summary
Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) use in Denmark declined between 1979 and 1999, but technical quality improved. Despite the decrease, ECT remains vital for treating hospitalized depression patients.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Neuroscience
- Medical Technology
Background:
- Systematic evaluation of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) in Denmark has been limited since 1979.
- Significant changes in psychiatric care organization and psychotropic medications have occurred.
- This study aimed to assess shifts in ECT treatment frequency and technical standards.
Observation:
- A nationwide survey of all Danish psychiatric departments was conducted.
- Data on ECT sessions, patient numbers, and treatment modalities were collected for 1999.
- 100% response rate achieved, with 86% providing adequate data for analysis.
Findings:
- ECT sessions decreased from 19,564 (1979) to 16,306 (1999).
- ECT patients decreased from 2,332 (1979) to 1,710 (1999), representing 5% of hospitalized psychiatric patients.
- Average sessions per patient slightly increased, while the technical quality of ECT devices significantly improved.
Implications:
- ECT utilization in Denmark has decreased since 1979.
- Despite the decline, ECT continues to be an important treatment for hospitalized depression.
- Improvements in ECT technology suggest enhanced treatment safety and efficacy.
