Is ECT used in Ireland?
St Patrick’s performs more ECT than any other centre in the Republic of Ireland. This is because we are the largest treating centre in Ireland. We are also involved in teaching other psychiatrists and centres.
What is the success rate of ECT for depression?
These sessions improve depression in 70 to 90 percent of patients, a response rate much higher than that of antidepressant drugs. Although ECT is effective, its benefits are short-lived.
How do I get approved for ECT?
Before having your first ECT treatment, you’ll need a full evaluation, which usually includes:
- Medical history.
- Complete physical exam.
- Psychiatric assessment.
- Basic blood tests.
- Electrocardiogram (ECG) to check your heart health.
- Discussion of the risks of anesthesia.
Is ECT an effective treatment for depression?
Extensive research has found ECT to be highly effective for the relief of major depression. Clinical evidence indicates that for individuals with uncomplicated, but severe major depression, ECT will produce substantial improvement in approximately 80 percent of patients.
Are you put under for ECT?
Once your medical team is sure that you are deeply asleep and that your muscles are completely relaxed, they will administer the ECT treatment. Because you will be asleep, you will experience no pain during the treatment and will not feel the current or the seizure.
What are some of the drawbacks to ECT?
Cons of ECT: Confusion post-treatment. Typically not well tolerated in the elderly population. Memory loss (retrograde amnesia) which usually improves within a couple months of the procedure. Physical side effects related to tension (nausea, headache, jaw aches, and muscle aches.
Do they shave your head for ECT?
During surgery prep, you’ll have your head shaved. You may be kept unconscious throughout brain surgery with general anesthesia or stay awake with a local anesthetic used on your scalp. A sturdy frame will hold your head to prevent movement during surgery.
Does ECT cause weight gain?
During ECT, all patients increased their caloric intake (280 +/- 180 to 1,510 +/- 60 kcal/day, mean +/- SEM) to exceed their basal energy expenditure; major improvements in their depressive symptoms and weight gain were seen in five of the six patients.