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Kellner CH. Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) for mania: Hiding in plain sight. Acta Psychiatr Scand 2024; 150:3-4. [PMID: 38744445 DOI: 10.1111/acps.13693] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2024] [Accepted: 04/28/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Charles H Kellner
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
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Tor PC, Barreiros AR, Cao TV, Dong V, Brettell L, Tuneu CM, Galvez V, Waite S, Sarma S, Branjerdporn G, Chatterton ML, Mohan T, Hussain S, Martin D, Loo C. Why You Should Collect Routine Clinical Data for ECT: A Singapore Story From the CARE Network. J ECT 2024:00124509-990000000-00157. [PMID: 38587407 DOI: 10.1097/yct.0000000000001012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/09/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Phern-Chern Tor
- From the Department of Mood and Anxiety, Institute of Mental Health, Singapore
| | | | - Thanh Vinh Cao
- Discipline of Psychiatry and Mental Health, School of Clinical Medicine, University of New South Wales, Black Dog Institute, Randwick
| | - Vanessa Dong
- Discipline of Psychiatry and Mental Health, School of Clinical Medicine, University of New South Wales, Black Dog Institute, Randwick
| | - Louise Brettell
- Discipline of Psychiatry and Mental Health, School of Clinical Medicine, University of New South Wales, Black Dog Institute, Randwick
| | - Clara Massaneda Tuneu
- Discipline of Psychiatry and Mental Health, School of Clinical Medicine, University of New South Wales, Black Dog Institute, Randwick
| | - Veronica Galvez
- Mental Health and Addiction Searvice, Parc Tauli University Hospital, I3PT-CERCA, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Sue Waite
- The Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Woodville South
| | | | | | | | | | - Salam Hussain
- Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, School of Psychiatry and Clinical Neurosciences, University of Western Australia, Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists, Nedlands, Australia
| | - Donel Martin
- Discipline of Psychiatry and Mental Health, School of Clinical Medicine, University of New South Wales, Black Dog Institute, Randwick
| | - Colleen Loo
- Discipline of Psychiatry and Mental Health, School of Clinical Medicine, University of New South Wales, Black Dog Institute, Randwick
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Marcó-García S, Ariyo K, Owen GS, David AS. Decision making capacity for treatment in psychiatric inpatients: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Psychol Med 2024; 54:1074-1083. [PMID: 38433596 DOI: 10.1017/s0033291724000242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/05/2024]
Abstract
Decision-making capacity (DMC) among psychiatric inpatients is a pivotal clinical concern. A review by Okai et al. (2007) suggested that most psychiatric inpatients have DMC for treatment, and its assessment is reliable. Nevertheless, the high heterogeneity and mixed results from other studies mean there is considerable uncertainty around this topic. This study aimed to update Okai's research by conducting a systematic review with meta-analysis to address heterogeneity. We performed a systematic search across four databases, yielding 5351 results. We extracted data from 20 eligible studies on adult psychiatric inpatients, covering DMC assessments from 2006 to May 2022. A meta-analysis was conducted on 11 papers, and a quality assessment was performed. The study protocol was registered on PROSPERO (ID: CRD42022330074). The proportion of patients with DMC for treatment varied widely based on treatment setting, the specific decision and assessment methods. Reliable capacity assessment was feasible. The Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), Global Assessment of Function (GAF), and Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale (BPRS) predicted clinical judgments of capacity. Schizophrenia and bipolar mania were linked to the highest incapacity rates, while depression and anxiety symptoms were associated with better capacity and insight. Unemployment was the only sociodemographic factor correlated with incapacity. Assessing mental capacity is replicable, with most psychiatric inpatients able to make treatment decisions. However, this capacity varies with admission stage, formal status (involuntary or voluntary), and information provided. The severity of psychopathology is linked to mental capacity, though detailed psychopathological data are limited.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Marcó-García
- Teaching, Research & Innovation Unit, Parc Sanitari Sant Joan de Déu, Barcelona, Spain
- Etiopathogenesis and treatment of severe mental disorders (MERITT), Sant Joan de Déu Research Institute, Sant Joan de Déu Foundation, Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Social Psychology and Quantitative Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, University of Barcelona, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Kevin Ariyo
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Gareth S Owen
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Anthony S David
- Division of Psychiatry, UCL Institute of Mental Health, University College London, London, UK
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Takamiya A, Kishimoto T, Mimura M. What Can We Tell About the Effect of Electroconvulsive Therapy on the Human Hippocampus? Clin EEG Neurosci 2023; 54:584-593. [PMID: 34547937 DOI: 10.1177/15500594211044066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is the most effective antidepressant treatment, although its mechanisms of action remain unclear. Since 2010, several structural magnetic resonance imaging studies based on a neuroplastic hypothesis have consistently reported increases in the hippocampal volume following ECT. Moreover, volume increases in the human dentate gyrus, where neurogenesis occurs, have also been reported. These results are in line with the preclinical findings of ECT-induced neuroplastic changes, including neurogenesis, gliogenesis, synaptogenesis, and angiogenesis, in rodents and nonhuman primates. Despite this robust evidence of an effect of ECT on hippocampal plasticity, the clinical relevance of these human hippocampal changes continues to be questioned. This narrative review summarizes recent findings regarding ECT-induced hippocampal volume changes. Furthermore, this review also discusses methodological considerations and future directions in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akihiro Takamiya
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Taishiro Kishimoto
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masaru Mimura
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
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Rajagopalan A, Lim KWK, Tan XW, Martin D, Lee J, Tor PC. Predictors of cognitive changes in patients with schizophrenia undergoing electroconvulsive therapy. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0284579. [PMID: 37159469 PMCID: PMC10168561 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0284579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2022] [Accepted: 04/02/2023] [Indexed: 05/11/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Previous studies on the effects of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) on cognition in schizophrenia have been inconclusive. This study aimed to identify factors that may predict cognitive improvement or deterioration in patients with schizophrenia after-ECT. MATERIALS & METHODS Patients with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder with predominantly positive psychotic symptoms, who were treated with ECT at the Institute of Mental Health (IMH), Singapore, between January 2016 and January 2018, were assessed. Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale (BPRS) and Global Assessment of Function (GAF) were performed before and after ECT. Patients with clinically significant improvement, deterioration or no change in MoCA scores were compared on demographics, concurrent clinical treatment and ECT parameters. RESULTS Of the 125 patients analysed, 57 (45.6%), 36 (28.8%) and 32 (25.6%) showed improvements, deterioration and no change in cognition respectively. Age and voluntary admission predicted MoCA deterioration. Lower pre-ECT MoCA and female sex predicted MoCA improvement. Patients showed improvements in GAF, BPRS and BPRS subscale scores on average, except for the MoCA deterioration group, who did not show statistically significant improvement in negative symptom scores. Sensitivity analysis showed that nearly half the patients (48.3%) who were initially unable to complete MoCA pre-ECT were able to complete MoCA post-ECT. CONCLUSIONS The majority of patients with schizophrenia demonstrate improved cognition with ECT. Patients with poor cognition pre-ECT are more likely to see improvement post-ECT. Advanced age may be a risk factor for cognitive deterioration. Finally, improvements in cognition may be associated with improvements in negative symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arvind Rajagopalan
- Department of Mood and Anxiety, Institute of Mental Health, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Kenny Wai Kwong Lim
- Department of Mood and Anxiety, Institute of Mental Health, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Xiao Wei Tan
- Department of Mood and Anxiety, Institute of Mental Health, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Donel Martin
- School of Psychiatry, Black Dog Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Jimmy Lee
- Department of Psychosis, Institute of Mental Health, Singapore, Singapore
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Phern-Chern Tor
- Department of Mood and Anxiety, Institute of Mental Health, Singapore, Singapore
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Martin DM, Berryhill ME, Dielenberg V. Can brain stimulation enhance cognition in clinical populations? A critical review. Restor Neurol Neurosci 2022:RNN211230. [PMID: 36404559 DOI: 10.3233/rnn-211230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Many psychiatric and neurological conditions are associated with cognitive impairment for which there are very limited treatment options. Brain stimulation methodologies show promise as novel therapeutics and have cognitive effects. Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), known more for its related transient adverse cognitive effects, can produce significant cognitive improvement in the weeks following acute treatment. Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is increasingly used as a treatment for major depression and has acute cognitive effects. Emerging research from controlled studies suggests that repeated TMS treatments may additionally have cognitive benefit. ECT and TMS treatment cause neurotrophic changes, although whether these are associated with cognitive effects remains unclear. Transcranial electrical stimulation methods including transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) and transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS) are in development as novel treatments for multiple psychiatric conditions. These treatments may also produce cognitive enhancement particularly when stimulation occurs concurrently with a cognitive task. This review summarizes the current clinical evidence for these brain stimulation treatments as therapeutics for enhancing cognition. Acute, or short-lasting, effects as well as longer-term effects from repeated treatments are reviewed, together with potential putative neural mechanisms. Areas of future research are highlighted to assist with optimization of these approaches for enhancing cognition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donel M. Martin
- Sydney Neurostimulation Centre, Discipline of Psychiatry and Mental Health UNSW, Black Dog Institute, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Marian E. Berryhill
- Memory and Brain Lab, Programs in Cognitive and Brain Sciences, and Integrative Neuroscience, University of Nevada, Reno, NV, USA
| | - Victoria Dielenberg
- Sydney Neurostimulation Centre, Discipline of Psychiatry and Mental Health UNSW, Black Dog Institute, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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Takamiya A, Sienaert P, Gergel T, Gather J, Kishimoto T, Zilles-Wegner D. Effectiveness of electroconvulsive therapy in patients lacking decision making capacity: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Brain Stimul 2022; 15:1246-1253. [PMID: 36089193 DOI: 10.1016/j.brs.2022.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2022] [Revised: 09/02/2022] [Accepted: 09/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is provided for patients with severe and often life-threatening illness, who lack decision making capacity to consent to treatment (DMC-T) in clinical settings. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study is to summarize previous studies investigating clinical outcomes of ECT in patients lacking DMC-T. METHODS A systematic review and meta-analysis of studies reporting clinical outcomes of ECT in patients lacking DMC-T with any psychiatric diagnoses was conducted. The primary outcome was clinical improvement. Secondary outcomes were cognitive outcomes and six month readmission rate. Hedges' g and odds ratios were calculated using a random-effects model. The protocol was registered in Open Science Framework (https://osf.io/rxjkm). RESULTS Of 3552 identified articles, 41 studies (n = 1299) were included. Approximately 80% of patients lacking DMC-T responded to ECT, and part of the patients regained capacity to consent and consented to further treatment with ECT. A total of seven studies (n = 1081) were included for meta-analysis. Patients without DMC-T showed superior clinical improvement and less cognitive side effects compared with those with DMC-T, whereas the groups did not show any difference in readmission rate. Several clinical characteristics at baseline and ECT techniques were significantly different between the groups. CONCLUSION ECT is equally, if not superiorly, effective in patients lacking DMC-T compared to patients with DMC-T. ECT can potentially enhance patients' autonomy, without increasing the risk of cognitive side effects. These results support the clinical and ethical legitimacy of ECT provision for patients with the most severe illness who lack DMC-T at start of treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akihiro Takamiya
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Pascal Sienaert
- Academic Center for ECT and Neuromodulation (AcCENT), University Psychiatric Center, KU Leuven, Kortenberg, Belgium
| | - Tania Gergel
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology, and Neuroscience, King's College London, United Kingdom
| | - Jakov Gather
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Preventive Medicine, LWL University Hospital, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany; Institute for Medical Ethics and History of Medicine, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Taishiro Kishimoto
- Hills Joint Research Laboratory for Future Preventive Medicine and Wellness, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - David Zilles-Wegner
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany.
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Seamon A, Groth CM, Surya S, Rosenquist PB. Role of Electroconvulsive Therapy in Treatment-Resistant Schizophrenia in Forensic Psychiatry. J ECT 2022; 38:156-158. [PMID: 35462381 DOI: 10.1097/yct.0000000000000843] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Long-term institutionalization of the forensic psychiatry patient population places a psychological burden on patients and family members as well as a financial burden on the health care system at large. Although electroconvulsive therapy is a well-established tool for patients with treatment-resistant schizophrenia, it is infrequently used in the forensic setting. This review serves to demonstrate an example of electroconvulsive therapy in combination with clozapine as a means of reducing length of hospitalization in a forensic psychiatric patient. Furthermore, this review will discuss factors limiting the prescribing of electroconvulsive therapy to this patient population including ethical considerations and availability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda Seamon
- From the Department of Psychiatry and Health Behavior, Augusta University, Augusta, GA
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Curley A, Watson C, Kelly BD. Capacity to consent to treatment in psychiatry inpatients - a systematic review. Int J Psychiatry Clin Pract 2022; 26:303-315. [PMID: 34941467 DOI: 10.1080/13651501.2021.2017461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mental capacity for treatment decisions in psychiatry inpatients is an important ethical and legal concern, especially in light of changes in mental capacity legislation in many jurisdictions. AIMS To conduct a systematic review of literature examining the prevalence of mental capacity for treatment decisions among voluntary and involuntary psychiatry inpatients, and to assess any correlations between research tools used to measure mental capacity and binary judgements using criteria such as those in capacity legislation. METHOD We searched PsycINFO, Ovid MEDLINE and EMBASE for studies assessing mental capacity for treatment decisions in people admitted voluntarily and involuntarily to psychiatric hospitals. RESULTS Forty-five papers emanating from 33 studies were identified. There was huge variability in study methods and often selective populations, but the prevalence of decision-making capacity varied between 5% and 83.7%. These figures resulted from studies using cut-off scores or categorical criteria only. The prevalence of decision-making capacity among involuntary patients ranged from 7.7% to 42%, and among voluntary patients ranged from 29% to 97.9%. Two papers showed positive correlations between clinicians' judgement of decision-making capacity and scores on the MacArthur Competence Assessment Tool for Treatment; two papers showed no such correlation. CONCLUSIONS Not all voluntary psychiatry inpatients possess mental capacity and many involuntary patients do. This paradox needs to be clarified and resolved in mental health legislation; supported decision-making can help with this task.Key PointsLegislative changes for mental capacity are taking place in many jurisdictions.This is an important human rights issue for many people, including psychiatry inpatients.In our review, we found the prevalence of decision-making capacity varies between 5% and 83.7% in psychiatry inpatients.Not all voluntary inpatients have decision-making capacity.Many involuntary inpatients have mental capacity to make decisions.Supported decision-making can help those with impairments in their mental capacity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aoife Curley
- Department of Psychiatry, Trinity College Dublin, Trinity Centre for Health Sciences, Tallaght University Hospital, Tallaght, Dublin, Ireland.,Cavan Monaghan Mental Health Service, Monaghan, Ireland
| | - Carol Watson
- Cavan Monaghan Mental Health Service, Monaghan, Ireland
| | - Brendan D Kelly
- Department of Psychiatry, Trinity College Dublin, Trinity Centre for Health Sciences, Tallaght University Hospital, Tallaght, Dublin, Ireland
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Tan X, Martin D, Lee J, Tor PC. The Impact of Electroconvulsive Therapy on Negative Symptoms in Schizophrenia and Their Association with Clinical Outcomes. Brain Sci 2022; 12:545. [PMID: 35624932 PMCID: PMC9139352 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci12050545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2022] [Revised: 04/13/2022] [Accepted: 04/22/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The treatment efficacy of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) for negative symptoms amongst patients with schizophrenia remains unclear. In this study, we aim to examine the effects of ECT on negative symptoms in schizophrenia and their association with other clinical outcomes, including cognition and function. METHODS This is a retrospective data analysis of patients with schizophrenia/schizoaffective disorder treated with ECT at the Institute of Mental Health (IMH), Singapore, between January 2016 and December 2019. Clinical outcomes were assessed by the Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale (BPRS), the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), and Global Assessment of Function (GAF). Changes in scores were compared with repeated measures analysis of variance. Sequential structural modelling was utilized to examine the pathway relationships between changes in negative symptoms, global functioning, and cognition functioning after ECT. RESULTS A total of 340 patients were analysed. Hence, 196 (57.6%), 53 (15.5%), and 91 (26.7%) showed improvements, no change, and deterioration in negative symptoms, respectively. ECT-induced improvement of negative symptoms was significantly associated with improvement of global functioning (direct effect correlation coefficient (r): -0.496; se: 0.152; p = 0.001) and cognition function (indirect effect r: -0.077; se: 0.037; p = 0.035). Moreover, having capacity to consent, more severe baseline negative symptoms, lithium prescription, and an indirect effect of voluntary admission status via consent capacity predicted ECT associated negative symptoms improvement. CONCLUSION ECT is generally associated with improvements of negative symptoms in people with schizophrenia, which correlate with improvements of overall function. Possible novel clinical predictors of negative symptom improvement have been identified and will require further research and validation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaowei Tan
- Department of Mood Disorder and Anxiety, Institute of Mental Health, Singapore 539747, Singapore;
| | - Donel Martin
- School of Psychiatry, University of New South Wales, Randwick, NSW 2031, Australia;
- Black Dog Institute, Hospital Road, Randwick, NSW 2031, Australia
| | - Jimmy Lee
- Department of Psychosis, Institute of Mental Health, Singapore 539747, Singapore;
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 636921, Singapore
| | - Phern Chern Tor
- Department of Mood Disorder and Anxiety, Institute of Mental Health, Singapore 539747, Singapore;
- Neurostimulation Service, Institute of Mental Health, Singapore 539747, Singapore
- Duke-NUS Graduate Medical School, National University of Singapore, Singapore 169857, Singapore
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Kwan E, Le B, Loo CK, Dong V, Tor PC, Davidson D, Mohan T, Waite S, Branjerdporn G, Sarma S, Hussain S, Martin DM. The Impact of COVID-19 on Electroconvulsive Therapy: A Multisite, Retrospective Study From the Clinical Alliance and Research in Electroconvulsive Therapy and Related Treatments Network. J ECT 2022; 38:45-51. [PMID: 34387286 PMCID: PMC8875438 DOI: 10.1097/yct.0000000000000800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Accepted: 07/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has led to reported change in electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) services worldwide. However, minimal data have been published demonstrating tangible changes across multiple ECT centers. This article aimed to examine changes in ECT patients and ECT service delivery during the pandemic. METHODS We retrospectively assessed data collected on ECT patients within the Clinical Alliance and Research in Electroconvulsive Therapy and Related Treatments (CARE) Network during a 3-month period starting at the first COVID-19 restrictions in 2020 and compared data with predicted values based on the corresponding 3-month period in 2019. Mixed-effects repeated-measures analyses examined differences in the predicted and actual number of acute ECT courses started and the total number of acute ECT treatments given in 2020. Sociodemographic, clinical, treatment factors, and ECT service delivery factors were compared for 2020 and 2019. RESULTS Four Australian and 1 Singaporean site participated in the study. There were no significant differences between the predicted and actual number of acute ECT courses and total number of acute ECT treatments administered in 2020. During 2020, there were statistically significant increases in the proportion of patients requiring ECT under substitute consent and receiving ECT for urgent reasons compared with 2019. CONCLUSIONS This multisite empirical study is among the first that supports anecdotal reports of changes in the triaging and delivery of ECT during COVID-19. Results suggest that ECT was prioritized for the most severely ill patients. Further data assessing the impacts of COVID-19 on ECT are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elaine Kwan
- From the School of Psychiatry, University of New South Wales
| | - Brandon Le
- From the School of Psychiatry, University of New South Wales
| | - Colleen K. Loo
- From the School of Psychiatry, University of New South Wales
- Black Dog Institute, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Vanessa Dong
- From the School of Psychiatry, University of New South Wales
- Black Dog Institute, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | | | | | | | - Susan Waite
- The Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Adelaide, South Australia
| | | | | | - Salam Hussain
- Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Nedlands
- University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia
- Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatry, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Donel M. Martin
- From the School of Psychiatry, University of New South Wales
- Black Dog Institute, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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Loughran O, Finnegan M, Dud I, Galligan T, Kennedy M, McLoughlin DM. Decision-making Capacity for Treatment After Electroconvulsive Therapy for Depression. J ECT 2022; 38:24-29. [PMID: 34699391 DOI: 10.1097/yct.0000000000000804] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Depression can impair decision-making capacity (DMC) for health care decisions. However, it is unclear whether DMC improves after treatments for depression such as electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). There is limited evidence available on DMC for treatment in patients with depression referred for ECT, and it is unknown whether ECT has any impact on DMC. We hypothesized that ECT will improve DMC in severely depressed patients and that this change will be associated with reduced depressive symptom severity. METHODS Using the MacArthur Competence Assessment Tool-Treatment, 4 abilities related to DMC were evaluated: Understanding, Appreciation, Reasoning, and Expressing a choice. This prospective study compared DMC abilities, depression severity, and cognition scores in 24 patients hospitalized with a major depressive episode before and 3 to 5 days after a course of ECT. RESULTS Although Understanding scores significantly improved after ECT (P = 0.004, r = 0.41), there was no change in other abilities related to DMC or cognition scores. As expected, there was a large improvement in mood ratings after ECT, but the change in DMC abilities was not associated with change in depressive symptoms. CONCLUSIONS To our knowledge, this is the first study to provide data on the effects of ECT on DMC in patients with depression. Abilities related to DMC that may be affected in this group before treatment include Understanding and Reasoning. Findings indicate that DMC to consent to treatment mostly does not change after a course of ECT and some aspects can improve in patients with depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Orlaith Loughran
- From the Department of Psychiatry, Trinity College Dublin, St. Patrick's University Hospital
| | - Martha Finnegan
- From the Department of Psychiatry, Trinity College Dublin, St. Patrick's University Hospital
| | - Iulia Dud
- From the Department of Psychiatry, Trinity College Dublin, St. Patrick's University Hospital
| | - Toni Galligan
- From the Department of Psychiatry, Trinity College Dublin, St. Patrick's University Hospital
| | - Miriam Kennedy
- From the Department of Psychiatry, Trinity College Dublin, St. Patrick's University Hospital
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Tor PC, Tan XW, Martin D, Loo C. Comparative outcomes in electroconvulsive therapy (ECT): A naturalistic comparison between outcomes in psychosis, mania, depression, psychotic depression and catatonia. Eur Neuropsychopharmacol 2021; 51:43-54. [PMID: 34034099 DOI: 10.1016/j.euroneuro.2021.04.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2021] [Revised: 04/27/2021] [Accepted: 04/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Electroconvulsive Therapy's (ECT) use and place in treatment guidelines varies worldwide with a primary indication of depression in Western countries and acute psychosis in Asian countries. There is sparse evidence about the relative effectiveness of ECT among different indications that may account for this discrepancy. We aimed to compare the clinical global impression of disease severity, cognitive change, subjective quality of life (QoL) and global functioning after ECT given for treatment of the indications of acute psychosis, mania, depression, psychotic depression and catatonia. We conducted a retrospective naturalistic cohort study with post-hoc analyses of patients' ECT registry data from 2017 to 2019. 691 patients were assessed before and after 6 sessions of ECT treatment, using the Clinical Global Impression-Improvement and Severity (CGI-I and CGI-S) scale, Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), Quality of Life Enjoyment and Satisfaction Questionnaire Short Form (Q-LES-Q-SF), EQ-5D utility score and Global Assessment of Functioning (GAF) scale. The pre-ECT vs post-ECT clinical assessment change scores were compared within and across the five indications. For each indication, there were large improvements in clinical global impression of disease severity, QoL and global functioning. There were no significant changes in MoCA score for most indications except for an improvement in patients with schizophrenia. ECT is a rapidly acting and effective acute treatment across several severe mental illnesses with large improvements in symptoms, QoL and global functioning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Phern Chern Tor
- Department of Mood and Anxiety, Institute of Mental Health, Singapore 539747; Neurostimulation Service, Institute of Mental Health, Singapore 539747; Duke-NUS Graduate Medical School, Singapore 169857.
| | - Xiao Wei Tan
- Department of Mood and Anxiety, Institute of Mental Health, Singapore 539747
| | - Donel Martin
- School of Psychiatry, University of New South Wales, Randwick, NSW, 2031, Australia; Black Dog Institute, Hospital Road, Randwick, NSW, 2031, Australia
| | - Colleen Loo
- School of Psychiatry, University of New South Wales, Randwick, NSW, 2031, Australia; Black Dog Institute, Hospital Road, Randwick, NSW, 2031, Australia; The Wesley Hospital, 7 Blake St, Kogarah, NSW, 2217, Australia; St. George Hospital, Gray St, Kogarah, NSW, 2217, Australia; Northside Group St Leonards Clinic, 2 Frederick St, St Leonards, NSW, 2065, Australia
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Takamiya A, Bouckaert F, Sienaert P, Uchida T, Kudo S, Yamagata B, Kishimoto T, Mimura M, Hirano J. Electroconvulsive Therapy for Patients With Depression Who Lack Capacity for Consent: Doing Good and Doing No Harm. J ECT 2021; 37:171-175. [PMID: 33840801 DOI: 10.1097/yct.0000000000000764] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is provided in real-world clinical settings for patients lacking capacity for consent. The aim of this study was to investigate the clinical characteristics and clinical effectiveness of ECT in this population. METHODS A retrospective chart review was conducted to collect data from patients who received ECT to treat their depressive episodes between April 2012 and March 2019. Differences in clinical characteristics and short-/long-term clinical outcomes between patients who received ECT with their relatives' consent and patients who received ECT by their own consent were examined. The short-/long-term clinical outcomes were determined by clinical global impression scores and readmission rate, respectively. RESULTS Of 168 patients with depressive episodes, 34 (20.2%) received ECT with their relatives' consent. Those patients were older, had lower body mass index, and had shorter episode duration. They also exhibited more frequent psychotic, melancholic, and catatonic features. The main indication for ECT in this population was the need for rapid recovery. Patients lacking capacity for consent showed similar remission (61.8%) and response (82.4%) rates to those with capacity for consent. Readmission rate was not significantly different between groups. CONCLUSIONS There were no significant differences in short-/long-term ECT effectiveness between patients with/without capacity for consent. Electroconvulsive therapy is the only established and effective treatment in clinical settings for the most severe cases, wherein patients are incapable of giving consent but need rapid recovery. A general rejection of this practice due to concerns surrounding consent may be unethical under the ethical principles of medical care.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Pascal Sienaert
- Academic Center for ECT and Neuromodulation (AcCENT), University Psychiatric Center, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Takahito Uchida
- From the Department of Neuropsychiatry, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shun Kudo
- From the Department of Neuropsychiatry, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Bun Yamagata
- From the Department of Neuropsychiatry, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Taishiro Kishimoto
- From the Department of Neuropsychiatry, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masaru Mimura
- From the Department of Neuropsychiatry, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Jinichi Hirano
- From the Department of Neuropsychiatry, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
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15
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Tor PC, Tan J, Loo C. Model for ethical triaging of electroconvulsive therapy patients during the COVID-19 pandemic. BJPsych Bull 2021; 45:175-178. [PMID: 32811589 PMCID: PMC7492578 DOI: 10.1192/bjb.2020.99] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is an essential treatment for severe mental illnesses such as depression with suicidality and catatonia. However, its availability is being threatened by resource limitations and infection concerns due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This may necessitate the triage of patients for ECT but there is no established ethical framework to prioritise patients. We offer an application of an ethical framework for use of scare medical resources in the ECT setting.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jacinta Tan
- Aneurin Bevan University Health Board, Newport, UK
| | - Colleen Loo
- University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia.,The Black Dog Institute, Sydney, Australia.,St George Hospital, Sydney, Australia
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16
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Elias A, Thomas N, Sackeim HA. Electroconvulsive Therapy in Mania: A Review of 80 Years of Clinical Experience. Am J Psychiatry 2021; 178:229-239. [PMID: 33167675 DOI: 10.1176/appi.ajp.2020.20030238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Resistance to pharmacological agents is commonly encountered in the treatment of acute episodes of mania. In contemporary practice guidelines, electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), once a widely used standalone intervention for mania, is no longer considered a first-line treatment. Stigma, logistics, and ethical factors constrain ECT administration in this condition and lead to its underutilization. However, the past three decades have produced promising research regarding the use of ECT in mania. Randomized controlled trials, albeit in limited numbers, the adoption of ultrabrief ECT, examination of the safety and efficacy of combining ECT with pharmacological agents, including lithium, and use of ECT as a maintenance strategy have enhanced our understanding of how and when to utilize this intervention in mania. In this comprehensive review, the authors summarize the evidence regarding the efficacy and safety of ECT in mania, including related syndromes, such as delirious mania and mixed affective states. The impact of technical parameters, particularly the choice of treatment frequency, electrode placements, and pulse width, are discussed in the light of recent evidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alby Elias
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia (Elias, Thomas); Departments of Psychiatry and Radiology, College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York (Sackeim)
| | - Naveen Thomas
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia (Elias, Thomas); Departments of Psychiatry and Radiology, College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York (Sackeim)
| | - Harold A Sackeim
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia (Elias, Thomas); Departments of Psychiatry and Radiology, College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York (Sackeim)
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17
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Kaster TS, Blumberger DM, Gomes T, Sutradhar R, Dasklakis ZJ, Wijeysundera DN, Vigod SN. Patient-level Characteristics and Inequitable Access to Inpatient Electroconvulsive Therapy for Depression: A Population-based Cross-sectional Study: Caractéristiques au niveau du patient et accès inéquitable à la thérapie électroconvulsive pour patients hospitalisés. CANADIAN JOURNAL OF PSYCHIATRY. REVUE CANADIENNE DE PSYCHIATRIE 2021; 66:147-158. [PMID: 32613857 PMCID: PMC7918876 DOI: 10.1177/0706743720935647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE A variety of patient characteristics drive the use of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) in depression. However, the extent to which each characteristic influences the receipt of ECT, and whether they are appropriate, is unknown. The aim of this study is to identify patient-level characteristics associated with receiving inpatient ECT for depression. METHOD We identified all psychiatric inpatients with a major depressive episode admitted to hospital ≥3 days in Ontario, Canada (2009 to 2017). The association between patient-level characteristics at admission and receipt of inpatient ECT was determined using logistic regression, where a generalized estimating equations approach accounted for repeat admissions. RESULTS The cohort included 53,174 inpatients experiencing 75,429 admissions, with 6,899 admissions involving ECT (9.2%). Among demographic factors, age was most associated with ECT-younger adults had reduced (OR = 0.30, 95%CI, 0.24 to 0.37; 18 to 25 years) while older adults had increased (OR = 3.08, 95%CI, 2.41 to 3.93; 85+ years) odds compared to middle-aged adults (46 to 55 years). The likelihood of ECT was greater for individuals who were married/partnered, had postsecondary education, and resided in the highest neighborhood income quintile. Among clinical factors, illness polarity was most associated with receiving ECT-bipolar depression had reduced odds of receiving ECT (OR = 0.62, 95%CI, 0.57 to 0.69) The likelihood of receiving ECT was greater in psychotic depression, more depressive symptoms, and incapable to consent to treatment and was reduced with comorbid substance use disorders and several medical comorbidities. CONCLUSIONS Nearly 1 in 10 admissions for depression in Ontario, Canada, involve ECT. Many clinical factors associated with receiving inpatient ECT were concordant with clinical guidelines; however, nonclinical factors associated with its use warrant investigation of their impact on equitable access to ECT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tyler S Kaster
- Temerty Centre for Therapeutic Brain Intervention, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Psychiatry, 7938 University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Daniel M Blumberger
- Temerty Centre for Therapeutic Brain Intervention, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Psychiatry, 7938 University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute 7978Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Tara Gomes
- 518773Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute of St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,50010ICES, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Institute of Health Policy Management and Evaluation, 7938University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Rinku Sutradhar
- 50010ICES, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Institute of Health Policy Management and Evaluation, 7938University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Zafiris J Dasklakis
- Temerty Centre for Therapeutic Brain Intervention, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Psychiatry, 7938 University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute 7978Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Duminda N Wijeysundera
- 518773Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute of St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Institute of Health Policy Management and Evaluation, 7938University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Anesthesia, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, 7938University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Simone N Vigod
- Department of Psychiatry, 7938 University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Institute of Health Policy Management and Evaluation, 7938University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Women's College Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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18
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Plahouras JE, Konstantinou G, Kaster TS, Buchman DZ, Foussias G, Daskalakis ZJ, Blumberger DM. Treatment Capacity and Clinical Outcomes for Patients With Schizophrenia Who Were Treated With Electroconvulsive Therapy: A Retrospective Cohort Study. Schizophr Bull 2020; 47:424-432. [PMID: 33145601 PMCID: PMC7965065 DOI: 10.1093/schbul/sbaa144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients with schizophrenia are often found incapable to consent to psychiatric treatment. We evaluated clinical outcomes for incapable and capable patients with schizophrenia treated with electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). METHODS We conducted a chart review of all inpatients treated with an acute course of ECT between 2010 and 2018 at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Canada. Short-term outcomes included treatment response and cognitive impairment. We assessed whether incapable patients regained the capacity to consent to treatment. Long-term outcomes included readmissions and subsequent courses of acute or maintenance ECT. RESULTS A total of 159 (67%) incapable and 79 (33%) capable patients were included. Patients experienced treatment response (incapable, n = 108, 67.9%; capable, n = 52, 65.8%; P = .771) and few experienced cognitive impairment (incapable, n = 21, 13.2%; capable, n = 19, 24.1%; P = .043). A minority of patients were treated with a subsequent course of acute ECT (incapable, n = 46, 28.9%; capable, n = 16, 20.3%; P = .162). Incapable patients were more likely to be treated with maintenance ECT for at least 6 months (incapable, n = 46, 28.9%; capable, n = 13, 16.5%; P = .039). Both groups had similar readmission rates (incapable, n = 70, 44.0%; capable, n = 35, 44.3%; P = 1.000). Eight (5.0%) incapable patients regained capacity and 7 consented to further treatment. CONCLUSIONS Irrespective of treatment capacity, the majority of patients demonstrated clinical improvement. Incapable patients experienced less cognitive side effects when compared with capable patients, though they had fewer treatments overall. This study informs clinicians, patients, and substitute decision-makers about the outcomes and challenges of ECT in patients with schizophrenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanne E Plahouras
- Institute of Medical Science, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada,Temerty Centre for Therapeutic Brain Intervention, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Gerasimos Konstantinou
- Temerty Centre for Therapeutic Brain Intervention, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada,Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Tyler S Kaster
- Temerty Centre for Therapeutic Brain Intervention, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada,Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Daniel Z Buchman
- Joint Centre for Bioethics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada,Bioethics Department, Toronto Western Hospital, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada,Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada,Krembil Brain Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - George Foussias
- Institute of Medical Science, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada,Temerty Centre for Therapeutic Brain Intervention, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada,Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada,Schizophrenia Division, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Zafiris J Daskalakis
- Institute of Medical Science, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada,Temerty Centre for Therapeutic Brain Intervention, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada,Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada,Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Campbell Family Mental Health Institute, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Daniel M Blumberger
- Institute of Medical Science, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada,Temerty Centre for Therapeutic Brain Intervention, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada,Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada,Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Campbell Family Mental Health Institute, Toronto, ON, Canada,To whom correspondence should be addressed; Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 1001 Queen St. W. Unit 4, Room 115, Toronto, ON M6J 1H4, Canada; tel: 416-535-8501 x 33662, fax: 416-583-4613, e-mail:
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