Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) / Electronic Brain Therapy

While ECT was surrounded by stigma in the past, modern advancements have made it a safe and effective option for individuals struggling with debilitating psychiatric disorders. The procedure involves the controlled administration of electrical currents to the brain to induce a brief, controlled seizure. This process helps reset brain chemistry and improve symptoms of severe mental illness.

ECT is thought to enhance neuroplasticity, promote the release of beneficial neurotransmitters, and reduce overactivity in certain brain regions associated with mental illnesses.

What Happens During ECT?

Before undergoing ECT, you receive a comprehensive pre-treatment evaluation to ensure you’re a suitable candidate. This includes medical assessments, psychiatric evaluations, and discussions about potential risks and benefits.

1. Pre-Treatment Preparation – You may need to fast for several hours before the procedure. A team of medical professionals, including psychiatrists and anaesthesiologists, prepare you for the treatment.
2. Administration of Anaesthesia and Muscle Relaxants – To ensure comfort and minimise physical movement, a short-acting general anaesthetic and muscle relaxant are administered.
3. Electrode Placement and Electrical Stimulation – Small electrodes are placed on the scalp, and a brief electrical pulse is delivered to induce a controlled seizure.
4. Monitoring and Post-Treatment Care – Your vital signs are monitored throughout the procedure, and after a short recovery period, you can return home or to your hospital room for recovery.

Bipolar Disorder : For people with Bipolar Disorder, ECT can help during both manic and depressive episodes when medications alone are ineffective. It is particularly useful when rapid symptom relief is needed.

Schizophrenia : ECT can be an effective treatment for Schizophrenia, especially in cases of severe psychosis or Catatonia that do not respond to antipsychotic medications.

Catatonia : ECT is highly effective in treating Catatonia, a condition characterised by motor disturbances such as immobility or extreme agitation. It can help restore normal movement and responsiveness in those experiencing this distressing condition.

Duration of Benefits : While ECT can provide rapid relief, the longevity of its effects varies. Some people require maintenance ECT sessions to sustain improvement, while others achieve long-term remission with continued medication and therapy.

Risks And Side Effects of ECT

Cognitive Effects : One of the most commonly discussed side effects of ECT is temporary memory loss or confusion. Most people recover their memory function within weeks or months, though some may experience longer-lasting effects.

Physical Side Effects : Common physical side effects include headaches, muscle soreness, and nausea, which typically resolve within a few hours post-treatment.

Serious Risks : Severe complications are rare, but as with any medical procedure, there is a small risk of heart-related issues or other medical complications, especially in individuals with pre-existing conditions.

Technological Innovations : Modern ECT is performed with the help of advanced monitoring equipment that tracks your heart rate, oxygen levels, brain activity, and more during the session. This ensures your safety and allows the medical team to tailor the procedure to your specific health profile.

Bilateral vs. Unilateral Stimulation : You now have options when it comes to electrode placement. In unilateral ECT, stimulation is applied to one side of the brain, typically the non-dominant hemisphere. This is done to reduce the risk of cognitive side effects. Bilateral ECT is often more potent but may carry a slightly higher chance of memory issues. The choice depends on your condition and how quickly a response is needed.

Ultra-Brief Pulse Technology : One of the biggest breakthroughs is the use of ultra-brief pulse stimulation. This technique uses shorter electrical pulses, which significantly reduces cognitive side effects—especially memory loss—without compromising the effectiveness of the treatment.

Patient Experience and Considerations

 Preparing for ECT : Preparation involves detailed medical and psychiatric evaluations, fasting before treatment, and discussions with your healthcare team to ensure you understand the process.

What to Expect During Treatment : Electroconvulsive Therapy is performed in a controlled medical setting, and you are under anaesthesia throughout the procedure. The treatment itself lasts only a few minutes, with a brief recovery period afterwards.

Post-Treatment Care : After ECT, you may experience temporary confusion or fatigue. It’s important to have a loved one to support you and follow any post-treatment guidelines provided by your doctor.