Volume : 3, Issue : 4, April - 2014

Electroconvulsive Therapy Usage in Geriatric Patients in A Tertiary Care Hospital : A Retrospective Chart Analysis

Shivanshu Shrivastava, Sagar Karia, Avinash De Sousa, Nilesh Shah, Sushma Sonavane

Abstract :

Background: Electro Convulsive Therapy (ECT) is used in large number of indications in adult populations, but there is lack of data for use of ECTs as a treatment modality in the geriatric age group. Objective: Given the prevalence and severity of psychiatric disorders in geriatric age group, we decided to carry out a retrospective audit of ECTs given in this age group in last one year in a tertiary hospital. Methods: The ECT records of last one year of geriatric patients (age group of 60 years and above) were studied and the socio-demographic data, indications, number of ECTs given, anesthetic agents used and side effects were recorded. The data was then pooled, tabulated and subjected to statistical analysis. Results: In our audit, we found that ECTs were given to 22 geriatric patients in last one year. 63.64% patients suffered from schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders while 36.36% patients had mood disorders. A large number of concomitant medication was administered and no side effects were noted. Conclusions: Thus ECT is a useful and safe treatment modality in geriatric age group patients and must be used when needed.