When to consider electroconvulsive therapy (ECT).

OBJECTIVE

To familiarize the reader with the role of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) in current psychiatric medicine.

METHOD: We review clinical indications for ECT, patient selection, contemporary ECT practice, maintenance treatment and ECT in major treatment guidelines.

RESULTS

ECT is underutilized largely due to persisting stigma and lack of knowledge about modern ECT technique.

CONCLUSION

ECT remains a vital treatment for patients with severe mood disorders, psychotic illness and catatonia.