Patients are referred for ECT by psychiatric providers, ensuring expert consultation for treatment decisions. Comprehensive medical evaluations, including anesthesia consultations, are conducted under the direct supervision of ECT psychiatrists and anesthesiologists. Our team includes psychiatrists, anesthesiologists, ECT nursing staff, and certified nurse anesthetists.

We offer the following:

• Patient Evaluations: Complete inpatient and outpatient evaluations
• Outpatient Program: Expanding to accommodate more patients for ECT
• Research and Training: Focuses on outcome predictors and optimization techniques, offering training for visiting psychiatrists

For ECT evaluations and appointments, call 734-764-9190 or 1-800-525-5188. A comprehensive summary of the patient's illness course is important for evaluations. Patients and families need to collaborate with their outpatient psychiatry provider to assist with the referral for this specialty care. Medical records and information are collected prior to an evaluation appointment. Outpatient psychiatric providers also are required to complete our referral document.

• Provider referral document

Mechanisms of ECT: ECT involves applying a brief electrical pulse to the scalp while the patient is under anesthesia, causing synchronized brain cell activity and inducing a seizure. Though the exact mechanisms remain unclear, ECT may alter neurotransmitters and adjust stress hormone regulation affecting energy, sleep, appetite, and mood.

Number of Treatments Needed: Treatments are typically administered three times a week, with a usual range of six to twelve sessions; the average is nine. The treatment number is tailored based on symptom severity and patient response, often with noticeable improvements after six sessions.

Right Unilateral vs. Bilateral Treatment:

• Right Unilateral Placement: Electrode on crown and right temple, potentially slower response but fewer memory side effects.
• Bilateral Placement: Electrode on both temples, used for severe mental illnesses, may have more acute memory side effects, often fewer treatments needed.

Treatment decisions are made collaboratively with your doctor after evaluating medical and psychiatric history.

Maintenance ECT

Recommended for recurring depression, involving a structured reduction in treatment frequency to prevent re-hospitalizations.

After ECT

Maintenance medication is typically required to prevent relapses, and ECT psychiatrists assist with medication options/best evidenced based recommendations. Psychotherapy may be helpful as well post-treatment to manage stressors and personal issues effectively.

Some of the common side effects include:

• Post-Treatment Effects: Headaches, muscle aches, or nausea, manageable with medication.
• Mental Confusion: May occur due to anesthesia, typically resolving within 30 minutes to 1 hour.
• Memory Loss: Short-term loss and potential "spotty" memory impairment, often restoring within months.

ECT carries minimal risks akin to outpatient surgeries under anesthesia, with continuous monitoring by medical professionals ensuring safety.