Electroconvulsive therapy impairs systolic performance of the left ventricle.

PURPOSE: In this observational study, we examined left ventricular systolic performance during electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), using an echocardiographic automated border detection system.

METHODS

Nine ASA I or II patients scheduled for ECT were studied. Bilateral ECT was performed after the administration of propofol 1 mg x kg(-1), succinylcholine 1 mg x kg(-1), and assisted mask ventilation with 100% oxygen. Cardiac function was monitored by transthoracic echocardiography, prior to anesthesia induction and throughout the ECT procedure until ten minutes after the seizure.

RESULTS

Increased end-systolic area and decreased fractional area change were observed at one minute after the seizure compared to the awake condition. No regional wall motion abnormalities were observed in all patients both at baseline condition and during the ECT

CONCLUSION

Systolic performance of the left ventricle estimated by echocardiography decreased transiently in the immediate period after the electric shock.