Electroshock
Electroshock
Electroshock (pronounced: /ˈɛlɛktroʊˌʃɒk/), also known as electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), is a psychiatric treatment in which seizures are electrically induced in patients to provide relief from mental disorders. The etymology of the term "electroshock" can be traced back to the Greek words "electron" meaning amber, and "shock" from the Dutch "schok" meaning to shake or to move suddenly.
History
The use of electricity for therapeutic purposes dates back to the early 20th century. The first documented use of electroshock therapy was in 1938 by Italian neuropsychiatrists Ugo Cerletti and Lucio Bini.
Procedure
The procedure involves placing electrodes on the patient's scalp and passing a controlled electric current through the brain, causing a brief seizure. The patient is under general anesthesia and muscle relaxants during the procedure to prevent injury.
Uses
Electroshock is primarily used as a treatment for severe major depression and bipolar disorder. It is also used in cases where other treatments have failed or when rapid response is needed, such as in cases of catatonia and severe suicidal ideation.
Risks and Side Effects
While electroshock is generally safe, it does carry risks and side effects including confusion, memory loss, physical risks associated with anesthesia, and heart complications.
See Also
References
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Electroshock
- Wikipedia's article - Electroshock
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