2019 Volume 31 Issue 1 Pages 22-30
Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) demonstrates remarkable effectiveness and rapid onset of action without absolute medical contraindication. Therefore, many psychiatrists consider it is relatively safe and easy therapeutic option. However, various adverse effects including hypertension, arrhythmia, asystole, delirium, amnesia, persistent apnea may occur. Anesthesiological risk should be considered because of marked fluctuation in circulation during a short treatment time. We present a case of dementia with Lewy body complicated with pneumonia, electrolyte imbalance, and deep vein thrombosis to review pretreatment assessment, expected adverse effects, preventive planning and informed consent for safe ECT.
