Multicenter Observational Study of Electroconvulsive Therapy in Japan

Area of Science:

• Psychiatry
• Neurology
• Clinical Medicine

Background:

• Modified electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is a vital treatment for severe mental health conditions.
• Understanding current ECT practices in Japan is crucial for optimizing patient care.
• This study represents the first large-scale, multicenter survey of modified ECT in Japan.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the current implementation status of modified electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) in Japan.
• To analyze patient demographics, diagnoses, and treatment outcomes of acute-phase ECT.
• To evaluate the efficacy, safety, and adverse events associated with ECT.

Main Methods:

• A multicenter observational study involving 21 certified ECT facilities in Japan.
• Analysis of annual reports from 2016, including patient diagnoses, gender, age, efficacy, and adverse events.
• Investigation of acute-phase ECT patient data, totaling 524 individuals.

Main Results:

• Mood disorders (F3) were the most common indication (65.6%), followed by schizophrenia spectrum disorders (F2) (29.8%).
• The mean patient age was 60.4 years, with 57.9% aged 60 or older.
• Efficacy rates did not differ significantly by diagnosis or gender, but were higher in elderly patients. Four severe adverse events were reported.

Conclusions:

• Modified ECT is a significant treatment option in Japan, primarily for mood disorders and schizophrenia.
• Efficacy is comparable across diagnoses but notably higher in older patients.
• Accumulating multicenter data can enhance the effectiveness and safety of ECT practices.