Electroconvulsive therapy use in adolescents: a systematic review

Area of Science:

• Psychiatry
• Adolescent Medicine
• Neuroscience

Background:

• Adolescence is a critical period for psychiatric disorder development.
• Choosing effective therapeutic approaches for adolescent psychopathology is crucial.
• Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is a researched treatment option for this age group.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent and classical aspects of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) use in adolescents.
• To evaluate the efficiency of ECT in achieving remission for adolescent psychiatric disorders.
• To explore potential risks and complications associated with ECT in adolescents.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review methodology was employed.
• The review adhered to the PRISMA statement guidelines.
• Data collection was performed in November 2012.

Main Results:

• Out of 212 retrieved articles, 39 were included in the final analysis.
• Studies indicated the use of ECT in adolescent populations.
• The efficiency, risks, and complications of ECT in adolescents were evaluated.

Conclusions:

• Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is highly effective for treating adolescent psychiatric disorders.
• ECT achieves high remission rates in adolescents.
• Adverse effects are few, generally benign, and manageable with proper technique, making risks minimal compared to benefits.