Electroconvulsive Therapy Practice in Spain: A National Survey.

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Psychiatry
• Clinical Practice

Background:

• Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is a vital treatment for severe mental health conditions.
• Systematic evaluations of ECT use in Spain were last conducted in 2000-2001.
• Current ECT practices in Spain require updated assessment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the contemporary utilization of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) across Spain.
• To identify trends and variations in ECT application and methodology nationwide.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive cross-sectional survey was administered to all psychiatric units in Spain.
• Data collection was performed as of December 31, 2012, achieving a high response rate of 93.2%.

Main Results:

• Approximately 54.9% of psychiatric units utilized ECT, with significant regional disparities.
• Modified ECT was universally applied, with bifrontotemporal placement being most common (85%).
• Depressive episodes constituted the primary indication (80.2%), and informed consent was consistently obtained.

Conclusions:

• ECT practice in Spain shows significant recent improvements and general adherence to clinical guidelines.
• Despite advancements, identified areas for improvement in electroconvulsive therapy protocols and training persist.