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Updated: Feb 6, 2026
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Pupillary Response as Assessment of Effective Seizure Induction by Electroconvulsive Therapy
Published on: April 11, 2019
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Electroconvulsive Therapy in Depression: Current Practice and Future Direction
Adriana P Hermida1, Oliver M Glass1, Hadia Shafi1
1Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, 12 Executive Park Drive Northeast, Atlanta, GA 30329, USA.
The Psychiatric Clinics of North America
|August 13, 2018
Summary
Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) has advanced with safer techniques and brief pulse widths, improving safety and efficacy. This review covers modern ECT methods for depression in special populations and medically complex patients.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Psychiatry
- Medical Technology
Background:
- Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) has undergone significant evolution over decades.
- Modern ECT incorporates safer equipment and refined techniques.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide an in-depth review of recent advances in ECT techniques.
- To examine the evidence for ECT in managing depression in special populations.
- To discuss ECT for patients with comorbid medical conditions.
Main Methods:
- Review of recent literature on ECT technique modifications.
- Analysis of evidence for ECT efficacy and safety in specific patient groups.
- Discussion of individualized treatment parameters.
Main Results:
- Brief and ultrabrief pulse widths enhance ECT safety without compromising efficacy.
- Individualized treatment parameters further improve the safety profile of ECT.
- Evidence supports ECT's role in managing depression across diverse patient populations.
Conclusions:
- Recent advancements have made ECT a safer and highly effective treatment option.
- ECT is a viable and evidence-based treatment for depression in complex patient cases.
- Further research continues to refine ECT protocols for optimal patient outcomes.
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