Abstract
Background
Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is among the oldest treatments in psychiatry, is used variably worldwide due to different factors.
Aims
The study aimed to estimate inpatient ECT indication and utilization in the MENAT region.
Method
A systematic review and meta-analysis of relevant articles published from 2013 to 2024 was conducted.
Results
Six studies were included, showing an average inpatient prevalence of ECT at 14.48 per 100 inpatients. The studies were characterized by high heterogeneity (I2 = 100%). ECT was most commonly administered to male inpatients averaging 35.14 years old, with schizophrenia (29.7%) and bipolar disorder (29.28%) being the most common diagnoses. The average number of ECT sessions was 9.36. Overall, the studies reported the use of bilateral modified ECT.
Conclusions
ECT utilization rates vary globally and within the MENAT region. More efforts are needed to standardize and expand the delivery of modified ECT in the region.