[Current perspectives in electroconvulsive therapy]

Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) originally stems from the concept of Meduna at the beginning of the 1930s who utilized repeated generalized seizures as a therapeutic agent for schizophrenic disorders. The method has continuously evolved in technical and nontechnical aspects. The ECT could consistently overcome numerous adversities. It has recently been integrated into various guidelines and position papers for severe mental illnesses. The German Institute for Medical Documentation and Information (DIMDI) has established the term Elektrokonvulsionstherapie in Germany to replace older stigmatizing names. Better patient education contributes to a decline in skepticism and reluctance. The rising number of treatments in Germany resulted in capacity shortages in existing ECT centers. Numerous preclinical and clinical research studies are contributing to a better understanding of the mechanism of action. In parallel, innovative forms of anesthesia and muscle relaxation are becoming established.