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Guo Q, Wang Y, Guo L, Chen C, Han S, Shang S. Evaluating cognitive assessment tools for patients with major depressive disorder receiving electroconvulsive therapy: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Asian J Psychiatr 2024; 100:104169. [PMID: 39153315 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajp.2024.104169] [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] [Received: 05/28/2024] [Revised: 07/21/2024] [Accepted: 07/22/2024] [Indexed: 08/19/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) affects 350 million people worldwide. Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is effective, yet research on cognitive assessments post-treatment is lacking. This study systematically reviews and meta-analyzes the effectiveness of cognitive assessment tools post-ECT to optimize MDD treatment. METHODS Following PRISMA guidelines, this review was pre-registered on PROSPERO (CRD42023470318). Searches were conducted across nine databases up to November 12, 2023. Quality assessment for Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs) and quasi-experimental studies was performed using the Cochrane risk of bias tool, JBI critical appraisal tools, and the Jadad scale. Meta-analyses for short-term and long-term cognitive function involved 24 and 18 tools, respectively. FINDINGS Thirty studies (20 RCTs and 10 quasi-experimental) involving 2462 MDD patients were evaluated. Results indicated no significant differences in overall short-term and long-term cognitive functions post-ECT. Short-term analysis showed impairments in memory, learning, and verbal abilities but improvements in attention and processing speed. Long-term analysis revealed enhancements in memory, learning, verbal, and visuospatial abilities compared to baseline. Based on GRADE classification, we recommend 11 tools for assessing acute cognitive function and 10 tools for chronic cognitive impairment. These tools demonstrated high reliability and validity, supporting their clinical use. INTERPRETATION These findings provide critical evidence for future ECT clinical guidelines in managing MDD. The recommended tools can aid clinicians in adjusting ECT regimens, identifying early cognitive changes, and improving therapeutic outcomes in MDD treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qinghua Guo
- Outpatient department, Peking University Sixth Hospital, Beijing, China; School of Nursing, Peking University, Beijing, China.
| | - Yong Wang
- Department of Nursing, Peking University Sixth Hospital, Beijing, China.
| | - Libo Guo
- Outpatient department, Peking University Sixth Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Chao Chen
- Outpatient department, Peking University Sixth Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Shuyu Han
- School of Nursing, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Shaomei Shang
- School of Nursing, Peking University, Beijing, China.
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Massaneda-Tuneu C, Loo C, Martin D. Patients' Cognitive Potential Is Associated With Cognitive Performance After an Acute Course of Electroconvulsive Therapy. J ECT 2024:00124509-990000000-00204. [PMID: 39178038 DOI: 10.1097/yct.0000000000001057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/25/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Cognitive function after an acute treatment of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) can highly vary between individuals. This study aimed to extend prior research on individual factors, which influence outcomes by assessing whether a combination of 2 individual factors, level of education and lifetime occupational attainment, may be informative. METHODS A retrospective study was conducted using data from 24 patients with major depressive episode who underwent acute treatment with ECT. Cognitive functioning was assessed at pretreatment, during the acute course and 1-3 days after acute treatment. Participants were divided into higher and lower function groups based on a combination of their highest educational level and lifetime occupational attainment. RESULTS Statistically significant differences were observed between the 2 groups in retrograde memory function after ECT, assessed as percentage of consistency scores of the Columbia Autobiographical Memory Short Form (F(1,15) = 4.66, P < 0.05) and recovery of orientation during the acute ECT course (F(1,25.33) = 7.99, P = 0.009). No significant differences were found between groups for the other outcomes, which included verbal and visual anterograde memory, verbal fluency, and processing speed. CONCLUSIONS Results from this preliminary study suggest that patients with higher educational and lifetime occupational attainment may experience less retrograde amnesia and have faster recovery of orientation after ECT. Identifying markers of higher and lower 'cognitive potential' before ECT may assist in customizing ECT treatment for each patient.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clara Massaneda-Tuneu
- From the Discipline of Psychiatry & Mental Health, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
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Park S, Forester BP, Lapid MI, Harper DG, Hermida AP, Inouye SK, McClintock SM, Nykamp L, Petrides G, Schmitt EM, Seiner SJ, Mueller M, Patrick RE. A Novel Approach to Monitoring Cognitive Adverse Events for Interventional Studies Involving Advanced Dementia Patients: Insights From the Electroconvulsive Therapy for Agitation in Dementia Study. J Geriatr Psychiatry Neurol 2024; 37:234-241. [PMID: 37848185 DOI: 10.1177/08919887231207641] [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: 10/19/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To develop an individualized method for detecting cognitive adverse events (CAEs) in the context of an ongoing trial of electroconvulsive therapy for refractory agitation and aggression for advanced dementia (ECT-AD study). METHODS Literature search aimed at identifying (a) cognitive measures appropriate for patients with advanced dementia, (b) functional scales to use as a proxy for cognitive status in patients with floor effects on baseline cognitive testing, and (c) statistical approaches for defining a CAE, to develop CAEs monitoring plan specifically for the ECT-AD study. RESULTS Using the Severe Impairment Battery-8 (SIB-8), baseline floor effects are defined as a score of ≤5/16. For patients without floor effects, a decline of ≥6 points is considered a CAE. For patients with floor effects, a decline of ≥30 points from baseline on the Barthel Index is considered a CAE. These values were derived using the standard deviation index (SDI) approach to measuring reliable change. CONCLUSIONS The proposed plan accounts for practical and statistical challenges in detecting CAEs in patients with advanced dementia. While this protocol was developed in the context of the ECT-AD study, the general approach can potentially be applied to other interventional neuropsychiatric studies that carry the risk of CAEs in patients with advanced dementia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soohyun Park
- Department of Psychiatry, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Brent P Forester
- Department of Psychiatry, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Maria I Lapid
- Department of Psychiatry & Psychology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - David G Harper
- Geriatric Psychiatry Research Program, McLean Hospital, Belmont, MA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Adriana P Hermida
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Science, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Sharon K Inouye
- Aging Brain Center, Hebrew Senior Life, Hinda and Arthur Marcus Institute for Aging Research, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Shawn M McClintock
- Division of Psychology, Department of Psychiatry, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Louis Nykamp
- Pine Rest Christian Mental Health Services, Grand Rapids, MI, USA
| | - Georgios Petrides
- Zucker Hillside Hospital, Northwell Health, Glen Oaks, NY, USA
- Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Hempstead, NY, USA
| | - Eva M Schmitt
- Aging Brain Center, Hebrew Senior Life, Hinda and Arthur Marcus Institute for Aging Research, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Stephen J Seiner
- Psychiatric Neurotherapeutics Program, McLean Hospital, Belmont, MA, USA
| | - Martina Mueller
- College of Nursing and Department of Public Health Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC), Charleston, SC, USA
| | - Regan E Patrick
- Geriatric Psychiatry Research Program, McLean Hospital, Belmont, MA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 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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Guo Q, Wang Y, Guo L, Li X, Ma X, He X, Li J, Zhang X, Shang S. Long-term cognitive effects of electroconvulsive therapy in major depressive disorder: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Psychiatry Res 2024; 331:115611. [PMID: 38101070 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2023.115611] [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] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Revised: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 11/04/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is endorsed as a principal treatment approach for major depressive disorder (MDD) worldwide. Despite prior studies highlighting potential short-term cognitive deficits post-ECT, the debate regarding its long-term implications persists. This study endeavors to elucidate the reasons for this contention using an evidence-based approach. METHODS This investigation, meticulously aligned with PRISMA guidelines, was prospectively enlisted on PROSPERO (CRD42023439259). A comprehensive search was performed across various databases, including PubMed, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, Embase, SCOPUS, PsycINFO, CINAHL Plus, and OpenGrey. This review, traversing the literature from inception until June 2023, encapsulated 10 studies (five RCTs and five quasi-experimental studies) involving a cohort of 868 individuals diagnosed with major depressive disorder. RESULTS The meta-analysis revealed that the persistent discourse on ECT-induced long-term cognitive impairment chiefly emanates from the inadequacies in the specificity and sensitivity of conventional assessment instruments. Conversely, subgroup analyses showed that cognitive impairment in ECT, as gauged by the nascent assessment tool, Electroconvulsive Therapy Cognitive Assessment (ECCA) (SMD = -0.94, 95 % CI [-1.33, -0.54], p < 0.00001), exerted a detrimental influence on the long-term trajectory of individuals with MDD. Notably, there was an adverse effect of ECT on the subdomain of long-term learning cognitive abilities in patients with MDD (SMD = -0.37, 95 % CI [-0.55, -0.18], p < 0.0001). Contrarily, memory (SMD = 0.16, 95 % CI [-0.02, 0.34], p = 0.08), attention (SMD = 0.23, 95 % CI [-0.07, 0.54], p = 0.14), language (SMD = -0.10, 95 % CI [-0.25, 0.05], p = 0.19), spatial perception, and orientation (SMD = -0.04, 95 % CI [-0.28, 0.20], p = 0.75) exhibited no significant detriments. Intriguingly, ECT showed favorable effects on executive function and processing speed among patients with MDD (SMD = 0.52, 95 % CI [0.29, 0.74], p < 0.00001). CONCLUSION This meta-analysis underscores ECCA's superior sensitivity of the ECCA compared to the MMSE or MoCA in detecting cognitive changes in patients with post-ECT MDD. Following Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT), deterioration was observed in overall cognitive function and learning capabilities, while memory, attention, language, and spatial perception remained stable. Notably, enhancements were discerned in executive function and processing speed, which not only augmented academic perspectives but also steered the formulation of international clinical guidelines, accentuating the progressive role of ECT in the therapeutic approach to MDD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qinghua Guo
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Peking University Sixth Hospital, Beijing, China; School of Nursing, Peking University, Beijing, China.
| | - Yong Wang
- Department of Nursing, Peking University Sixth Hospital, Beijing, China.
| | - Libo Guo
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Peking University Sixth Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Xueqi Li
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Peking University Sixth Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Xiangyun Ma
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Peking University Sixth Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaoxiao He
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Peking University Sixth Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Jitao Li
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Peking University Sixth Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Xiao Zhang
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Peking University Sixth Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Shaomei Shang
- School of Nursing, Peking University, Beijing, China.
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Castaño Ramírez OM, Gómez Bedoya CA, Lemos Buitrago R, Castro Navarro JC, Valencia Aristizábal LG, Valderrama Sánchez A, Botero PF, Reinoso Gualtero MA. Electroconvulsive Therapy Impact on Memory Performance in Patients With Depression. REVISTA COLOMBIANA DE PSIQUIATRIA (ENGLISH ED.) 2023; 52:107-112. [PMID: 37500238 DOI: 10.1016/j.rcpeng.2021.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2020] [Accepted: 03/23/2021] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The safety of electroconvulsive therapy has improved greatly over the last decades, making the potentially adverse effects on memory and other neurocognitive functions the main clinical aspect of concern in the present. In Colombia, the general population and healthcare professionals (even some psychiatrists) seem to have mostly negative opinions towards electroconvulsive therapy treatment, but maybe this could be reconsidered if more information is provided; therefore, the aim of the present study was to evaluate the changes in memory and the severity of the symptoms in a group of patients with severe depression before and after electroconvulsive therapy. METHODS Twenty-three patients ranging in age from 23 to 70 years from the electroconvulsive therapy service at the San Juan de Dios Clinic (Manizales, Colombia) were recruited in order to assess the effect of electroconvulsive therapy on memory in patients with severe depression. Depressive symptoms and memory were assessed with the Hamilton Depression Scale (HAMD) and Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test (RAVLT), respectively. The assessment was administered to participants before the initial treatment of electroconvulsive therapy series (0-1 day) and 2 days after their last treatment. RESULTS Electroconvulsive therapy resulted in significant improvement in the rating of depression. There were no significant differences in the five learning trials, delayed recall, learning and forgetting scores from pre-treatment to post-treatment. Significant pre-treatment/post-treatment differences were found in the delayed recognition trial. CONCLUSIONS Pre- and post- electroconvulsive therapy cognitive assessment is a feasible and useful procedure. In general, memory performance does not worsen after electroconvulsive therapy in patients with depression. Only delayed recognition is affected a few days following electroconvulsive therapy, particularly in patients with low educational level and bitemporal (BT) electrode placement.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Rocío Lemos Buitrago
- Department of Mental Health and Human Behavior, University of Caldas, Manizales, Colombia
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7
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Martin DM, Tor PC, Waite S, Mohan T, Davidson D, Sarma S, Branjerdporn G, Dong V, Kwan E, Loo CK. The utility of the brief ECT cognitive screen (BECS) for early prediction of cognitive adverse effects from ECT: A CARE network study. J Psychiatr Res 2021; 145:250-255. [PMID: 34952375 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2021.12.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2021] [Revised: 11/04/2021] [Accepted: 12/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Although highly effective, electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) often produces cognitive side effects which can be a barrier for patients. Monitoring cognitive side effects during the acute course is therefore recommended to identify patients at increased risk for adverse outcomes. The Brief ECT Cognitive Screen (BECS) is a brief instrument designed to measure emerging cognitive side effects from ECT. The aim of this study was to examine the clinical utility of the BECS for predicting adverse cognitive outcomes in real world clinic settings. The study included data collated from four participating sites in the Clinical Alliance for ECT and Related treatments (CARE) network. The BECS was administered at pre ECT and post 3 or 4 ECT. The primary outcome was a ≥4 point decrease on the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) from pretreatment to post ECT. Logistic multiple regression analyses examined the BECS and other relevant clinical and demographic and treatment factors as predictors. The final analysis included 623 patients with diverse indications for ECT including 53.6% with major depression and 33.7% with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder. A higher total score on the BECS significantly predicted decline in Total Scores on the MoCA [B = 0.25 (0.08), p = 0.003], though not decline in MoCA Delayed Recall scores (p > 0.1). Other significant predictors included higher pretreatment MoCA Total Scores and female gender for verbal anterograde memory decline. This study confirmed that the BECS has clinical utility for identifying patients with both reduced and increased risk for adverse cognitive outcomes from ECT.
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Affiliation(s)
- D M Martin
- School of Psychiatry, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia; Black Dog Institute, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
| | - P C Tor
- Institute of Mental Health, Singapore
| | - S Waite
- The Queen Elizabeth Hospital, South Australia, Australia
| | - T Mohan
- Flinders Medical Centre, South Australia, Australia
| | - D Davidson
- Flinders Medical Centre, South Australia, Australia
| | - S Sarma
- Gold Coast Health Service, Queensland, Australia
| | | | - V Dong
- School of Psychiatry, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia; Black Dog Institute, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - E Kwan
- School of Psychiatry, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - C K Loo
- School of Psychiatry, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia; Black Dog Institute, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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8
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Castaño Ramírez OM, Gómez Bedoya CA, Lemos Buitrago R, Castro Navarro JC, Valencia Aristizábal LG, Valderrama Sánchez A, Botero PF, Reinoso Gualtero MA. Electroconvulsive Therapy Impact on Memory Performance in Patients With Depression. REVISTA COLOMBIANA DE PSIQUIATRIA (ENGLISH ED.) 2021; 52:S0034-7450(21)00069-X. [PMID: 34074454 DOI: 10.1016/j.rcp.2021.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2020] [Revised: 02/15/2021] [Accepted: 03/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The safety of electroconvulsive therapy has improved greatly over the last decades, making the potentially adverse effects on memory and other neurocognitive functions the main clinical aspect of concern in the present. In Colombia, the general population and healthcare professionals (even some psychiatrists) seem to have mostly negative opinions towards electroconvulsive therapy treatment, but maybe this could be reconsidered if more information is provided; therefore, the aim of the present study was to evaluate the changes in memory and the severity of the symptoms in a group of patients with severe depression before and after electroconvulsive therapy. METHODS Twenty-three patients ranging in age from 23 to 70 years from the electroconvulsive therapy service at the San Juan de Dios Clinic (Manizales, Colombia) were recruited in order to assess the effect of electroconvulsive therapy on memory in patients with severe depression. Depressive symptoms and memory were assessed with the Hamilton Depression Scale (HAMD) and Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test (RAVLT), respectively. The assessment was administered to participants before the initial treatment of electroconvulsive therapy series (0-1 day) and 2 days after their last treatment. RESULTS Electroconvulsive therapy resulted in significant improvement in the rating of depression. There were no significant differences in the five learning trials, delayed recall, learning and forgetting scores from pre-treatment to post-treatment. Significant pre-treatment/post-treatment differences were found in the delayed recognition trial. CONCLUSIONS Pre- and post- electroconvulsive therapy cognitive assessment is a feasible and useful procedure. In general, memory performance does not worsen after electroconvulsive therapy in patients with depression. Only delayed recognition is affected a few days following electroconvulsive therapy, particularly in patients with low educational level and bitemporal (BT) electrode placement.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Rocío Lemos Buitrago
- Department of Mental Health and Human Behavior, University of Caldas, Manizales, Colombia
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Allan D, Croucher M, Gee S, Porter R. Development of an autobiographical memory test for older electroconvulsive therapy candidates. Australas Psychiatry 2021; 29:214-217. [PMID: 33825553 DOI: 10.1177/10398562211003599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To develop a test of autobiographical memory for monitoring of older people during a course of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). METHOD A list of events commonly experienced in later life was gathered from older people (n = 26) at a psychogeriatric day clinic and from psychiatrists (n = 23) who work with older depressed patients. The most common events were chosen as question domains for an autobiographical memory interview. This was piloted with 12 severely depressed older patients. RESULTS A list of 15 common life events was developed. After pilot testing, a final 30-item questionnaire covering six common life events was proposed. CONCLUSION This study developed an autobiographical memory test with good face validity and potential for clinical use. It was modelled on a well-validated scale (The Columbia University Autobiographical Memory Interview, CUAMI-SF) and represented a useful first step in the development of a test for memory loss in older patients receiving ECT. The proposed test may be particularly sensitive to autobiographical memory loss in older people undergoing ECT because it uses recent personal memories, which are relatively commonly experienced in the older depressed population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Allan
- Department of Psychological Medicine, University of Otago, Christchurch, Canterbury, New Zealand
| | | | - Susan Gee
- Older Persons Mental Health, Canterbury District Health Board, Christchurch, New Zealand
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10
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A Comparison of Computerized Versus Pen-and-Paper Cognitive Tests for Monitoring Electroconvulsive Therapy-Related Cognitive Side Effects. J ECT 2020; 36:260-264. [PMID: 32453186 DOI: 10.1097/yct.0000000000000687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Cognitive side effects are a common unintended outcome of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). Routine cognitive assessment is important for monitoring patient outcomes, although it can pose challenges in busy clinical settings. Computerized cognitive testing has advantages that can facilitate routine monitoring. This study explored the construct and criterion validity of computerized cognitive testing compared with standard pen-and-paper tests for monitoring cognition in ECT patients. METHODS The study included 24 participants with major depression who received an acute course of ECT. Cognition was assessed at pretreatment and at posttreatment with 3 computerized tests from the CogState battery (International Shopping List task, One-Card Learning, and One-Back Task) and 3 conceptually matched pen-and-paper-administered neuropsychological tests. RESULTS At pretreatment, only performance on the computer-administered test of verbal anterograde memory (International Shopping List task) was significantly correlated with the analogous pen-and-paper measure, whereas the other computerized tests were not. Of the computerized measures, only the International Shopping List task showed significant changes from pretreatment to posttreatment (P < 0.01, Cohen d > 1.0). In contrast, all the pen-and-paper-administered tests showed significant changes from pretreatment to posttreatment (P < 0.01, Cohen d range, 0.8-1.2). Pretreatment to posttreatment cognitive changes on the computerized measures were not correlated with changes on the pen-and-paper-administered tests. CONCLUSION Construct and criterion validity and tolerability varied between the computerized measures. The results highlighted potentially important issues related to the interpretation and utility of computerized tests in this patient population.
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Sahlem GL, McCall WV, Short EB, Rosenquist PB, Fox JB, Youssef NA, Manett AJ, Kerns SE, Dancy MM, McCloud L, George MS, Sackeim HA. A two-site, open-label, non-randomized trial comparing Focal Electrically-Administered Seizure Therapy (FEAST) and right unilateral ultrabrief pulse electroconvulsive therapy (RUL-UBP ECT). Brain Stimul 2020; 13:1416-1425. [PMID: 32735987 PMCID: PMC7500956 DOI: 10.1016/j.brs.2020.07.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2020] [Revised: 07/17/2020] [Accepted: 07/21/2020] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Focal Electrically-Administered Seizure Therapy (FEAST) is a form of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) that spatially focuses the electrical stimulus to initiate seizure activity in right prefrontal cortex. Two open-label non-comparative studies suggested that FEAST has reduced cognitive side effects when compared to historical data from other forms of ECT. In two different ECT clinics, we compared the efficacy and cognitive side effects of FEAST and Right Unilateral Ultrabrief Pulse (RUL-UBP) ECT. METHODS Using a non-randomized, open-label design, 39 depressed adults were recruited after referral for ECT. Twenty patients received FEAST (14 women; age 45.2 ± 12.7), and 19 received RUL-UBP ECT (16 women; age 43.2 ± 16.4). Key cognitive outcome measures were the postictal time to reorientation and the Columbia University Autobiographical Memory Interview: Short-Form (CUAMI-SF). Antidepressant effects were assessed using the Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression (HRSD24). RESULTS In the Intent-to-treat sample, a repeated measures mixed model suggested no between group difference in HRSD24 score over time (F1,35 = 0.82, p = 0.37), while the response rate favored FEAST (FEAST: 65%; RUL-UBP ECT: 57.9%), and the remission rate favored RUL-UBP ECT (FEAST: 35%; RUL-UBP ECT: 47.4%). The FEAST group had numeric superiority in average time to reorientation (FEAST: 6.6 ± 5.0 min; RUL-UBP ECT: 8.8 ± 5.8 min; Cohens d = 0.41), and CUAMI-SF consistency score (FEAST: 69.2 ± 14.2%; RUL-UBP ECT: 63.9 ± 9.9%; Cohens d = 0.43); findings that failed to meet statistical significance. CONCLUSIONS FEAST exerts similar efficacy relative to an optimal form of conventional ECT and may have milder cognitive side effects. A blinded, randomized, non-inferiority trial is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregory L Sahlem
- Brain Stimulation Division, Department of Psychiatry, Medical University of South Carolina, SC, USA.
| | - William V McCall
- Department of Psychiatry and Health Behavior, GA, USA; Medical College of Georgia, GA, USA; Augusta University, GA, USA
| | - E Baron Short
- Brain Stimulation Division, Department of Psychiatry, Medical University of South Carolina, SC, USA
| | - Peter B Rosenquist
- Department of Psychiatry and Health Behavior, GA, USA; Medical College of Georgia, GA, USA; Augusta University, GA, USA
| | - James B Fox
- Brain Stimulation Division, Department of Psychiatry, Medical University of South Carolina, SC, USA
| | - Nagy A Youssef
- Department of Psychiatry and Health Behavior, GA, USA; Medical College of Georgia, GA, USA; Augusta University, GA, USA
| | - Andrew J Manett
- Brain Stimulation Division, Department of Psychiatry, Medical University of South Carolina, SC, USA
| | - Suzanne E Kerns
- Brain Stimulation Division, Department of Psychiatry, Medical University of South Carolina, SC, USA
| | - Morgan M Dancy
- Brain Stimulation Division, Department of Psychiatry, Medical University of South Carolina, SC, USA
| | - Laryssa McCloud
- Department of Psychiatry and Health Behavior, GA, USA; Medical College of Georgia, GA, USA; Augusta University, GA, USA
| | - Mark S George
- Brain Stimulation Division, Department of Psychiatry, Medical University of South Carolina, SC, USA; Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center, SC, USA
| | - Harold A Sackeim
- Departments of Psychiatry and Radiology, Columbia University, NY, USA
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Martin DM, McClintock SM, Loo CK. Brief cognitive screening instruments for electroconvulsive therapy: Which one should I use? Aust N Z J Psychiatry 2020; 54:867-873. [PMID: 32436734 DOI: 10.1177/0004867420924093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To review brief cognitive screening instruments for routine clinical monitoring in electroconvulsive therapy. METHODS Brief cognitive screening instruments specifically developed for electroconvulsive therapy and commonly used brief generalised cognitive screening instruments were reviewed with relative advantages and disadvantages highlighted. RESULTS Several brief cognitive screening tests designed for use in electroconvulsive therapy have been found sensitive for monitoring electroconvulsive therapy-related cognitive side effects. The choice of a brief generalised cognitive screening instrument for use in an electroconvulsive therapy clinical context comes with several pertinent considerations. CONCLUSION Electroconvulsive therapy is a highly effective treatment for pharmacoresistant and severe neuropsychiatric illness although cognitive side effects can be a barrier for treatment. Routine monitoring using brief cognitive screening instruments has advantages in busy clinical settings and can assist with optimising patient outcomes. More detailed neuropsychological assessment is recommended if the results from brief cognitive screening raise concerns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donel M Martin
- School of Psychiatry, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,Black Dog Institute, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Shawn M McClintock
- Division of Psychology, Department of Psychiatry, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA.,Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Colleen K Loo
- School of Psychiatry, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,Black Dog Institute, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,St George Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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Porter RJ, Baune BT, Morris G, Hamilton A, Bassett D, Boyce P, Hopwood MJ, Mulder R, Parker G, Singh AB, Outhred T, Das P, Malhi GS. Cognitive side-effects of electroconvulsive therapy: what are they, how to monitor them and what to tell patients. BJPsych Open 2020; 6:e40. [PMID: 32301408 PMCID: PMC7191622 DOI: 10.1192/bjo.2020.17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is recommended in treatment guidelines as an efficacious therapy for treatment-resistant depression. However, it has been associated with loss of autobiographical memory and short-term reduction in new learning. AIMS To provide clinically useful guidelines to aid clinicians in informing patients regarding the cognitive side-effects of ECT and in monitoring these during a course of ECT, using complex data. METHOD A Committee of clinical and academic experts from Australia and New Zealand met to the discuss the key issues pertaining to ECT and cognitive side-effects. Evidence regarding cognitive side-effects was reviewed, as was the limited evidence regarding how to monitor them. Both issues were supplemented by the clinical experience of the authors. RESULTS Meta-analyses suggest that new learning is impaired immediately following ECT but that group mean scores return at least to baseline by 14 days after ECT. Other cognitive functions are generally unaffected. However, the finding of a mean score that is not reduced from baseline cannot be taken to indicate that impairment, particularly of new learning, cannot occur in individuals, particularly those who are at greater risk. Therefore, monitoring is still important. Evidence suggests that ECT does cause deficits in autobiographical memory. The evidence for schedules of testing to monitor cognitive side-effects is currently limited. We therefore make practical recommendations based on clinical experience. CONCLUSIONS Despite modern ECT techniques, cognitive side-effects remain an important issue, although their nature and degree remains to be clarified fully. In these circumstances it is useful for clinicians to have guidance regarding what to tell patients and how to monitor these side-effects clinically.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard J Porter
- Treatment Algorithm Group; and Department of Psychological Medicine, University of Otago - Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Bernhard T Baune
- Treatment Algorithm Group; and Department of Psychiatry, University of Melbourne, Australia
| | - Grace Morris
- Treatment Algorithm Group; Academic Department of Psychiatry, Northern Sydney Local Health District; Sydney Medical School Northern, University of Sydney; and CADE Clinic, Royal North Shore Hospital, Northern Sydney Local Health District, Australia
| | - Amber Hamilton
- Treatment Algorithm Group; Academic Department of Psychiatry, Northern Sydney Local Health District; Sydney Medical School Northern, University of Sydney; and CADE Clinic, Royal North Shore Hospital, Northern Sydney Local Health District, Australia
| | - Darryl Bassett
- Treatment Algorithm Group; and Private Practice in Psychiatry and Division of Psychiatry, the University of Western Australia, Australia
| | - Philip Boyce
- Treatment Algorithm Group; and Discipline of Psychiatry, Sydney Medical School, Westmead Clinical School, University of Sydney, Australia
| | - Malcolm J Hopwood
- Treatment Algorithm Group; and Department of Psychiatry, University of Melbourne, Australia
| | - Roger Mulder
- Treatment Algorithm Group; and Department of Psychological Medicine, University of Otago - Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Gordon Parker
- Treatment Algorithm Group; School of Psychiatry, University of New South Wales; andBlack Dog Institute, Australia
| | - Ajeet B Singh
- Treatment Algorithm Group; and School of Medicine, IMPACT Strategic Research Centre, Deakin University, Australia
| | - Tim Outhred
- Treatment Algorithm Group; Academic Department of Psychiatry, Northern Sydney Local Health District; Sydney Medical School Northern, University of Sydney; and CADE Clinic, Royal North Shore Hospital, Northern Sydney Local Health District, Australia
| | - Pritha Das
- Treatment Algorithm Group; Academic Department of Psychiatry, Northern Sydney Local Health District; Sydney Medical School Northern, University of Sydney; and CADE Clinic, Royal North Shore Hospital, Northern Sydney Local Health District, Australia
| | - Gin S Malhi
- Treatment Algorithm Group; Academic Department of Psychiatry, Northern Sydney Local Health District; Sydney Medical School Northern, University of Sydney; and CADE Clinic, Royal North Shore Hospital, Northern Sydney Local Health District, Australia
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is a controversial treatment. Research has predominantly focused on clinician assessment of short-term efficacy and, occasionally, on participant experiences of the treatment itself. While service user accounts of the long-term impacts of ECT are reported, they are dispersed throughout the literature and typically tangential to studie's main foci. AIM The aim of this study was to synthesise service-user accounts, within peer-reviewed literature, of long-term impacts of ECT in their daily lives. METHODS A qualitative meta-synthesis was conducted. A systematic literature search identified qualitative articles meeting the inclusion criteria. Results sections of eligible papers were analysed thematically. RESULTS From 16 eligible papers, the review identified 11 long-term impacts, four social influences and five strategies that people employed to navigate these long-term impacts. CONCLUSION Limited research has examined long-term experiences of ECT from service-user perspectives. These lived experience perspectives are required to facilitate peer-to-peer learning and assist future service delivery to align with needs of people living with long-term ECT impacts.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Wells
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - N Hancock
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - A Honey
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
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Feasibility of the Audio Recorded Cognitive Screen in the Assessment of Individuals Undergoing Electroconvulsive Therapy. J ECT 2020; 36:4-9. [PMID: 31913926 DOI: 10.1097/yct.0000000000000637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Monitoring for cognitive deficits during a course of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is recommended, but cognitive assessment can be time consuming. The Audio Recorded Cognitive Screen (ARCS) is a cognitive test instrument with good psychometric properties that places minimal demands on clinicians' time, but until now, it has not been formally evaluated for monitoring cognition in the context of ECT treatment. OBJECTIVES This study aimed to assess the feasibility/utility of using the ARCS in the assessment of depressed patients undergoing ECT. METHODS Depressed patients undergoing ECT were tested with the ARCS and a comparison instrument, the Repeatable Battery for the Assessment of Neuropsychological Status (RBANS), in counterbalance order immediately before any ECT and after the sixth ECT treatment episode. Apathy (Apathy Scale) and depression (Profile of Mood states Short Form) were measured on both occasions. Analyses compared performances on the 2 cognitive instruments and examined for associations with the measures of apathy or depression. RESULTS Twenty-eight individuals (9 male, 19 female) aged 19 to 84 years underwent testing. Performances on the total ARCS were similar to those on the total RBANS, and both showed decline from baseline to follow-up. The total ARCS and RBANS measures correlated well (r = 0.75, P < 0.001). Neither apathy nor depression scores were significantly associated with scores on either the RBANS or ARCS. CONCLUSIONS The ARCS was acceptable and convenient in the assessment of cognition in patients undergoing treatment with ECT. In light of its practical advantages, further evaluation of the ARCS for detecting cognitive impairment and tracking cognitive changes during ECT seems warranted.
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Systematic Monitoring of Cognitive Function During Electroconvulsive Therapy: A Retrospective Analysis of Data From a Service Using a Short Cognitive Testing Battery. J ECT 2020; 36:10-17. [PMID: 31990736 DOI: 10.1097/yct.0000000000000659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE International guidelines suggest repeating cognitive testing at intervals throughout a course of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) to monitor its effects on cognitive function. However, it is apparent that few services do this, and an optimal battery of testing has not yet been established. We aimed to evaluate the utility of such routine cognitive testing in a clinic where patients had been routinely tested at intervals throughout a course of ECT. METHODS All patients referred for ECT at a public ECT clinic were offered routine cognitive testing to monitor cognitive function during their course of ECT. Testing was conducted at baseline and after 3, 6, and 9 treatments. Analyses examined whether change in individual measures predicted reduction in autobiographical memory at subsequent measures and whether the results that were given to clinicians informed treatment decisions. RESULTS Changes in cognitive test results were not associated with clinician decisions to change treatment parameters. Only change in digit span forwards after 3 treatments was associated with later reduction in Colombia University Autobiographical Interview - Short Form (CUAMI-SF) of greater than 25%, with a larger improvement in digit span forwards being associated with greater chance of having a 25% reduction in CUAMI-SF. CONCLUSIONS There was no evidence that the screening undertaken in this clinic had been helpful in determining treatment decisions or that changes in cognitive tests predicted in a reliable way who would later experience changes in autobiographical memory. However, follow-up testing was not completed reliably, and longer-term data regarding autobiographical memory were not collected.
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Abstract
OBJECTIVES Findings on the cognitive effect of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) in individuals with schizophrenia have brought mixed results, with few recent studies beginning to report cognitive improvements after treatment. Cognitive change in inpatients with schizophrenia who were referred for an acute course of ECT was examined in the current study. Furthermore, the study aimed to determine the profile of patients who experience cognitive improvement and the potential use of a brief cognitive battery to detect this positive cognitive change, if any. METHODS Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) was conducted at baseline and posttreatment after 6 sessions of ECT. The Brief ECT Cognitive Screen was also administered to determine its predictive ability on cognitive gain of 2 points or higher in MoCA total scores for the 2 consecutive time points. RESULTS A total of 81 inpatients were included in the study. Retrospective analysis revealed significant improvements in MoCA total score and domains of visuospatial/executive function and attention. Cognitive improvement was more pronounced among those who had worse pre-MoCA score before ECT. CONCLUSIONS The study provided support to the existing literature where cognitive improvement has been reported among individuals with schizophrenia after ECT. Future studies should consider the use of randomized controlled trials to examine the possible cognitive benefits of ECT. In a setting where there is a high volume of patients receiving ECT, the monitoring of patients' cognitive status through the course of ECT continues to be warranted and the Brief ECT Cognitive Screen may be useful as a quick measure to detect such ECT-related cognitive change.
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Weiss A, Hussain S, Ng B, Sarma S, Tiller J, Waite S, Loo C. Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists professional practice guidelines for the administration of electroconvulsive therapy. Aust N Z J Psychiatry 2019; 53:609-623. [PMID: 30966782 DOI: 10.1177/0004867419839139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 96] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To provide guidance for the optimal administration of electroconvulsive therapy, in particular maintaining the high efficacy of electroconvulsive therapy while minimising cognitive side-effects, based on scientific evidence and supplemented by expert clinical consensus. METHODS Articles and information were sourced from existing guidelines and the published literature. Information was revised and discussed by members of the working group of the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists' Section for Electroconvulsive Therapy and Neurostimulation, and findings were then formulated into consensus-based recommendations and guidance. The guidelines were subjected to rigorous successive consultation and external review within the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists, involving the full Section for Electroconvulsive Therapy and Neurostimulation membership, and expert and clinical advisors and professional bodies with an interest in electroconvulsive therapy administration. RESULTS The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists' professional practice guidelines for the administration of electroconvulsive therapy provide up-to-date advice regarding the use of electroconvulsive therapy in clinical practice and are informed by evidence and clinical experience. The guidelines are intended for use by psychiatrists and also others with an interest in the administration of electroconvulsive therapy. The guidelines are not intended as a directive about clinical practice or instructions as to what must be done for a given patient, but provide guidance to facilitate best practice to help optimise outcomes for patients. The outcome is guidelines that strive to find the appropriate balance between promoting best evidence-based practice and acknowledging that electroconvulsive therapy is a continually evolving practice. CONCLUSION The guidelines provide up-to-date advice for psychiatrists to promote optimal standards of electroconvulsive therapy practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alan Weiss
- 1 School of Medicine and Public Health, Faculty of Health and Medicine, The University of Newcastle, Australia, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
| | - Salam Hussain
- 2 School of Psychiatry, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
- 3 Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital Mental Health Service, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Bradley Ng
- 4 Mental Health and Specialist Services, Robina Hospital, Robina, QLD, Australia
| | - Shanthi Sarma
- 5 Mental Health and Specialist Services, Gold Coast Hospital and Health Service, Southport, QLD, Australia
| | - John Tiller
- 6 Department of Psychiatry, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- 7 Professorial Psychiatry Unit, Albert Road Clinic, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Susan Waite
- 8 Department of Mental Health Services, The Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Adelaide, SA, Australia
- 9 Discipline of Psychiatry, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Colleen Loo
- 10 School of Psychiatry, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- 11 Sydney Neurostimulation Centre, Black Dog Institute, Randwick, NSW, Australia
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Kong XM, Xie XH, Xu SX, Chen Y, Wang C, Hong H, Sun Y. Low-Charge Electrotherapy in Geriatric Major Depressive Disorder Patients: A Case Series. Psychiatry Investig 2019; 16:464-468. [PMID: 31247706 PMCID: PMC6603697 DOI: 10.30773/pi.2019.03.21.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2018] [Accepted: 03/21/2019] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
To examine the feasibility of low-charge electrotherapy (LCE) in treating geriatric major depressive disorder (MDD) patients. Bi-temporal LCEs (approximately 25 mC) were performed with an electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) instrument three times per week. We used the Hamilton Depression Scale 17 (HAMD-17) and the Hamilton Anxiety Scale (HAMA) to assess the effects of LCE and the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) to evaluate the cognitive function change before and after LCE. Six visits occurred at the baseline, after LCE sessions 3, 6, and 9, after the last session, and at the end of the one-month follow-up period. Four patients were enrolled in the study. Two patients completed all LCE sessions. Two patients withdrew during the trial, one due to the adverse event of uroschesis potentially caused by atropine and the other due to her own will. All four patients completed the follow-up sessions. The HAMD-17 and HAMA scores were reduced significantly at the last LCE session and the end of the follow-up period compared with the scores at the baseline. As measured by the MMSE, cognitive impairment showed no significant changes at the last LCE session and the end of the follow-up period compared with that at the baseline. In this case series, LCE showed potential as an alternative current-based treatment for treating geriatric MDD patients. Further research is needed to assess the efficiency and safety of LCE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Ming Kong
- Department of Psychiatry, Anhui Mental Health Center, Hefei, China
| | - Xin-Hui Xie
- Laboratory of Brain Stimulation and Biological Psychiatry, Second People's Hospital of Huizhou, Huizhou, China
| | - Shu-Xian Xu
- Department of Psychiatry, Second People's Hospital of Huizhou, Huizhou, China
| | - Yang Chen
- Department of Electroconvulsive Therapy, Anhui Mental Health Center, Hefei, China
| | - Chen Wang
- Department of Psychiatry, Anhui Mental Health Center, Hefei, China
| | - Hong Hong
- Department of Psychiatry, Anhui Mental Health Center, Hefei, China
| | - Yan Sun
- Department of Endocrinology, Anhui Geriatric Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
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Nuninga JO, Claessens TFI, Somers M, Mandl R, Nieuwdorp W, Boks MP, Bakker S, Begemann MJH, Heringa S, Sommer IEC. Immediate and long-term effects of bilateral electroconvulsive therapy on cognitive functioning in patients with a depressive disorder. J Affect Disord 2018; 238:659-665. [PMID: 29966930 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2018.06.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2018] [Revised: 06/12/2018] [Accepted: 06/14/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is the most effective treatment for patients suffering from major depression. However, its use is limited due to concerns about negative effects on cognition. Unilateral ECT is associated with transient cognitive side-effects, while case-controlled studies investigating the effect of bilateral ECT on cognition remain scarce. We investigate the effects of bilateral ECT on cognition in depression in a longitudinal case-controlled study. We hypothesize that adverse cognitive effects of bilateral ECT are transient rather than long-term. METHODS A total of 48 depressed patients and 19 controls were included in the study and assessed with a battery of cognitive tests, including tests of: working memory, verbal fluency, visuospatial abilities, verbal/visual memory and learning, processing speed, inhibition, attention and task-switching, and premorbid IQ. Patients underwent three cognitive assessments: at baseline (n = 43), after ten ECT sessions (post-treatment; n = 39) and six months after the tenth ECT session (follow-up; n = 25). Healthy controls underwent the same cognitive assessment at baseline and after five-weeks. RESULTS Within the patient group, transient adverse cognitive side-effects were observed for verbal memory and learning, and verbal fluency. None of the cognitive domains tested in this study showed persisting impairments. LIMITATIONS A relatively high attrition rate is observed and autobiographical memory was not assessed. CONCLUSION This study shows that bilateral ECT has negative cognitive effects on short-term. These effects could be explained by a decrease in cognitive performance, a lack of learning effects or a combination. However, the decrease in cognitive functioning appears to recover after six months.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jasper O Nuninga
- Department of Neuroscience, University Medical Centre Groningen, The Netherlands; Department of Psychiatry, Rudolf Magnus Institute of Neuroscience, University Medical Center, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
| | - Thomas F I Claessens
- Department of Psychiatry, Rudolf Magnus Institute of Neuroscience, University Medical Center, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Metten Somers
- Department of Psychiatry, Rudolf Magnus Institute of Neuroscience, University Medical Center, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - René Mandl
- Department of Psychiatry, Rudolf Magnus Institute of Neuroscience, University Medical Center, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Wendy Nieuwdorp
- Department of Psychiatry, Rudolf Magnus Institute of Neuroscience, University Medical Center, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Marco P Boks
- Department of Psychiatry, Rudolf Magnus Institute of Neuroscience, University Medical Center, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Steven Bakker
- Department of Psychiatry, Rudolf Magnus Institute of Neuroscience, University Medical Center, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Marieke J H Begemann
- Department of Psychiatry, Rudolf Magnus Institute of Neuroscience, University Medical Center, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Sophie Heringa
- Department of Psychiatry, Rudolf Magnus Institute of Neuroscience, University Medical Center, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Iris E C Sommer
- Department of Neuroscience, University Medical Centre Groningen, The Netherlands; Department of Psychiatry, Rudolf Magnus Institute of Neuroscience, University Medical Center, Utrecht, The Netherlands; Department of Medical and Biological Psychology, University of Bergen, Norway
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The Clinical Alliance and Research in Electroconvulsive Therapy Network: An Australian Initiative for Improving Service Delivery of Electroconvulsive Therapy. J ECT 2018; 34:7-13. [PMID: 28658011 DOI: 10.1097/yct.0000000000000435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE There is currently substantial heterogeneity in electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) treatment methods between clinical settings. Understanding how this variation in clinical practice is related to treatment outcomes is essential for optimizing service delivery. The Clinical Alliance and Research in ECT Network is a clinical and research framework with the aims of improving clinical practice, enabling auditing and benchmarking, and facilitating the collection of naturalistic clinical data. METHODS The network framework and clinical and treatment variables collected and rationale for the use of particular outcome measures are described. Survey results detailing the use of ECT across initial participating clinical centers were examined. RESULTS The data are reported from 18 of 22 participating centers, the majority based in Australia. Melancholic unipolar depression was the most common clinical indication (78%). Right unilateral (44%) and bifrontal (39%) were the most commonly used electrode placements. Eighty one percent of the centers used individual seizure titration for initial dosing. CONCLUSIONS There was substantial heterogeneity in the use of ECT between participating centers, indicating that the Network is representative of modern ECT practice. The Clinical Alliance and Research in ECT Network may therefore offer the opportunity to improve service delivery and facilitate the investigation of unresolved research questions pertaining to modern ECT practice.
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Validation of the 10-Item Orientation Questionnaire: A New Tool for Monitoring Post-Electroconvulsive Therapy Disorientation. J ECT 2018; 34:21-25. [PMID: 28976441 DOI: 10.1097/yct.0000000000000455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Assessment of post-electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) disorientation at a single time point after ECT treatment may prove an effective and clinically useful method for monitoring the severity of disorientation and predicting ECT-induced retrograde amnesia. In this study, we aimed to validate a novel instrument (10-Item Orientation Questionnaire) developed to assess the level of disorientation after ECT. METHODS Twenty-four depressed inpatients who were prescribed an acute course of ECT were administered the 10-Item Orientation Questionnaire at 30 minutes after ECT and had time to reorientation assessed at 3 time points after ECT (10, 30, and 60 minutes) at ECT treatments 1 to 3. The association between average performance of the 10-Item Orientation Questionnaire across the acute ECT course and retrograde amnesia at post-ECT was examined using the Autobiographical Memory Interview-Short Form. RESULTS Mean performance on the 10-Item Orientation Questionnaire across treatments 1 to 3 was moderately correlated with average time to reorientation (r = -0.52, P = 0.02, n = 20). Across the acute ECT course, poorer performance on the 10-Item Orientation Questionnaire was associated with greater retrograde amnesia at post-ECT (r = 0.53, P = 0.03, n = 16). CONCLUSIONS The 10-Item Orientation Questionnaire when administered at 30 minutes after ECT is sensitive for detecting patients with slow recovery of orientation after ECT. Use of this instrument therefore has potential for improving routine patient monitoring in clinical practice and identifying patients at increased risk of retrograde memory adverse effects following treatment.
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Abstract
Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is an effective treatment commonly used for depression and other major psychiatric disorders. We discuss potential adverse effects (AEs) associated with ECT and strategies for their prevention and management. Common acute AEs include headache, nausea, myalgia, and confusion; these are self-limiting and are managed symptomatically. Serious but uncommon AEs include cardiovascular, pulmonary, and cerebrovascular events; these may be minimized with screening for risk factors and by physiologic monitoring. Although most cognitive AEs of ECT are short-lasting, troublesome retrograde amnesia may rarely persist. Modifications of and improvements in treatment techniques minimize cognitive and other AEs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chittaranjan Andrade
- Department of Psychopharmacology, National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, Hosur Road, Bangalore 560 029, India.
| | - Shyam Sundar Arumugham
- Department of Psychiatry, National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, Hosur Road, Bangalore 560 029, India
| | - Jagadisha Thirthalli
- Department of Psychiatry, National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, Hosur Road, Bangalore 560 029, India
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Advances in the Application of Electroconvulsive Therapy. Curr Behav Neurosci Rep 2016. [DOI: 10.1007/s40473-016-0074-5] [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: 10/22/2022]
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Caddy C, Amit BH, McCloud TL, Rendell JM, Furukawa TA, McShane R, Hawton K, Cipriani A. Ketamine and other glutamate receptor modulators for depression in adults. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2015:CD011612. [PMID: 26395901 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd011612.pub2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Considering the ample evidence of involvement of the glutamate system in the pathophysiology of depression, pre-clinical and clinical studies have been conducted to assess the antidepressant efficacy of glutamate inhibition, and glutamate receptor modulators in particular. This review focuses on the use of glutamate receptor modulators in unipolar depression. OBJECTIVES To assess the effects - and review the acceptability - of ketamine and other glutamate receptor modulators in comparison to placebo (or saline placebo), other pharmacologically active agents, or electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) in alleviating the acute symptoms of depression in people with unipolar major depressive disorder. SEARCH METHODS We searched the Cochrane Depression, Anxiety and Neurosis Review Group's Specialised Register (CCDANCTR, to 9 January 2015). This register includes relevant randomised controlled trials (RCTs) from: the Cochrane Library (all years), MEDLINE (1950 to date), EMBASE (1974 to date), and PsycINFO (1967 to date). We did not apply any restrictions to date, language or publication status. SELECTION CRITERIA Double- or single-blind RCTs comparing ketamine, memantine, or other glutamate receptor modulators with placebo (or saline placebo), other active psychotropic drugs, or electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) in adults with unipolar major depression. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Three review authors independently identified studies, assessed trial quality and extracted data. The primary outcomes for this review were response rate and adverse events. MAIN RESULTS We included 25 studies (1242 participants) on ketamine (9 trials), memantine (3), AZD6765 (3), D-cycloserine (2), Org26576 (2), atomoxetine (1), CP-101,606 (1), MK-0657 (1), N-acetylcysteine (1), riluzole (1) and sarcosine (1). Twenty-one studies were placebo-controlled and the majority were two-arm studies (23 out of 25). Twenty-two studies defined an inclusion criteria specifying the severity of depression; 11 specified at least moderate depression; eight, severe depression; and the remaining three, mild-moderate depression. Nine studies recruited only treatment-resistant patients.We rated the risk of bias as low or unclear for most domains, though lack of detail regarding masking of treatment in the studies reduced our certainty in the effect for all outcomes. We rated three studies as having high risk for selective outcome reporting. Many trials did not provide information on all the prespecified outcomes and we found no data, or very limited data, on very important issues like suicidality, cognition, quality of life, costs to healthcare services and dropouts due to lack of efficacy.Among all glutamate receptor modulators, only ketamine (administered intravenously) proved to be more efficacious than placebo, though the quality of evidence was limited by risk of bias and small sample sizes. There was low quality evidence that treatment with ketamine increased the likelihood of response after 24 hours (odds ratio (OR) 10.77, 95% confidence interval (CI) 2.00 to 58.00; 3 RCTs, 56 participants), 72 hours (OR 12.59, 95% CI 2.38 to 66.73; 3 RCTs, 56 participants), and one week (OR 2.58, 95% CI 1.08 to 6.16; 4 RCTs, 131 participants). The effect of ketamine was even less certain at two weeks, as data were available from only one trial (OR 0.93, 95% CI 0.31 to 2.83; 51 participants, low quality evidence). This was consistent across all efficacy outcomes. Ketamine caused more confusion and emotional blunting compared to placebo. There was insufficient evidence to determine if this increased the likelihood of leaving the study early (OR 1.90, 95% CI 0.43 to 8.47; 5 RCTs, 139 participants, low quality evidence).One RCT with 72 participants reported higher numbers of responders on ketamine than midazolam at 24 hours (OR 0.36, 95% CI 0.14 to 0.58), 72 hours (OR 0.37, 95% CI 0.16 to 0.59), and one week (OR 0.29, 95% CI 0.08 to 0.49). However, midazolam was better tolerated than ketamine in terms of blurred vision, dizziness, general malaise and nausea/vomiting at 24 hours post-infusion. The evidence contributing to these outcomes was of low quality.We found better efficacy of sarcosine over citalopram at four weeks (OR 6.93, 95% CI 1.53 to 31.38; 1 study, 40 participants), but not at two weeks (OR: 8.14, 95% CI 0.88 to 75.48); fewer participants in the sarcosine group experienced adverse events (OR 0.04, 95% CI 0.00 to 0.68; P = 0.03, 1 study, 40 participants). This was based on low quality evidence. No significant results were found for the remaining glutamate receptor modulators.In one study with 18 participants, ketamine was more effective than ECT at 24 hours (OR 28.00, 95% CI 2.07 to 379.25) and 72 hours (OR 12.25, 95% CI 1.33 to 113.06), but not at one week (OR 3.35, 95% CI 0.12 to 93.83), or two weeks (OR 3.35, 95% CI 0.12 to 93.83). No differences in terms of adverse events were found between ketamine and ECT, however the only adverse events reported were blood pressure and heart rate. This study was rated as very low quality. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS We found limited evidence for ketamine's efficacy over placebo at time points up to one week in terms of the primary outcome, response rate. The effects were less certain at two weeks post-treatment. No significant results were found for the remaining ten glutamate receptor modulators, except for sarcosine being more effective than citalopram at four weeks. In terms of adverse events, the only significant differences in favour of placebo over ketamine were in regards to confusion and emotional blunting. Despite the promising nature of these preliminary results, our confidence in the evidence was limited by risk of bias and the small number of participants. Many trials did not provide information on all the prespecified outcomes and we found no data, or very limited data, on very important issues like suicidality, cognition, quality of life, costs to healthcare services and dropouts due to lack of efficacy.All included studies administered ketamine intravenously, which can pose practical problems in clinical practice. Very few trials were included in the meta-analyses for each comparison; the majority of comparisons contained only one study. Further RCTs (with adequate blinding) are needed to explore different modes of administration of ketamine with longer follow-up, which test the comparative efficacy of ketamine and the efficacy of repeated administrations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Caddy
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Warneford Hospital, Oxford, UK, OX3 7JX
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Martin DM, Gálvez V, Loo CK. Predicting Retrograde Autobiographical Memory Changes Following Electroconvulsive Therapy: Relationships between Individual, Treatment, and Early Clinical Factors. Int J Neuropsychopharmacol 2015; 18:pyv067. [PMID: 26091817 PMCID: PMC4675978 DOI: 10.1093/ijnp/pyv067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2014] [Accepted: 06/12/2015] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Loss of personal memories experienced prior to receiving electroconvulsive therapy is common and distressing and in some patients can persist for many months following treatment. Improved understanding of the relationships between individual patient factors, electroconvulsive therapy treatment factors, and clinical indicators measured early in the electroconvulsive therapy course may help clinicians minimize these side effects through better management of the electroconvulsive therapy treatment approach. In this study we examined the associations between the above factors for predicting retrograde autobiographical memory changes following electroconvulsive therapy. METHODS Seventy-four depressed participants with major depressive disorder were administered electroconvulsive therapy 3 times per week using either a right unilateral or bitemporal electrode placement and brief or ultrabrief pulse width. Verbal fluency and retrograde autobiographical memory (assessed using the Columbia Autobiographical Memory Interview - Short Form) were tested at baseline and after the last electroconvulsive therapy treatment. Time to reorientation was measured immediately following the third and sixth electroconvulsive therapy treatments. RESULTS Results confirmed the utility of measuring time to reorientation early during the electroconvulsive therapy treatment course as a predictor of greater retrograde amnesia and the importance of assessing baseline cognitive status for identifying patients at greater risk for developing later side effects. With increased number of electroconvulsive therapy treatments, older age was associated with increased time to reorientation. Consistency of verbal fluency performance was moderately correlated with change in Columbia Autobiographical Memory Interview - Short Form scores following right unilateral electroconvulsive therapy. CONCLUSIONS Electroconvulsive therapy treatment techniques associated with lesser cognitive side effects should be particularly considered for patients with lower baseline cognitive status or older age.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donel M Martin
- Black Dog Institute, School of Psychiatry, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia (Drs Martin, Gálvez, and Loo); Wesley Hospital, Sydney, Australia (Dr Loo); St George Hospital, South Eastern Sydney Health, Sydney, Australia (Dr Loo).
| | - Verònica Gálvez
- Black Dog Institute, School of Psychiatry, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia (Drs Martin, Gálvez, and Loo); Wesley Hospital, Sydney, Australia (Dr Loo); St George Hospital, South Eastern Sydney Health, Sydney, Australia (Dr Loo)
| | - Colleen K Loo
- Black Dog Institute, School of Psychiatry, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia (Drs Martin, Gálvez, and Loo); Wesley Hospital, Sydney, Australia (Dr Loo); St George Hospital, South Eastern Sydney Health, Sydney, Australia (Dr Loo)
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Weiner RD. Introduction to Convulsive Therapy. Brain Stimul 2015. [DOI: 10.1002/9781118568323.ch5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
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Abstract
For many patients with neuropsychiatric illnesses, standard psychiatric treatments with mono or combination pharmacotherapy, psychotherapy, and transcranial magnetic stimulation are ineffective. For these patients with treatment-resistant neuropsychiatric illnesses, a main therapeutic option is electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). Decades of research have found ECT to be highly effective; however, it can also result in adverse neurocognitive effects. Specifically, ECT results in disorientation after each session, anterograde amnesia for recently learned information, and retrograde amnesia for previously learned information. Unfortunately, the neurocognitive effects and underlying mechanisms of action of ECT remain poorly understood. The purpose of this paper was to synthesize the multiple moderating and mediating factors that are thought to underlie the neurocognitive effects of ECT into a coherent model. Such factors include demographic and neuropsychological characteristics, neuropsychiatric symptoms, ECT technical parameters, and ECT-associated neurophysiological changes. Future research is warranted to evaluate and test this model, so that these findings may support the development of more refined clinical seizure therapy delivery approaches and efficacious cognitive remediation strategies to improve the use of this important and widely used intervention tool for neuropsychiatric diseases.
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