Monitoring electroconvulsive therapy by electroencephalogram: an update for ECT practitioners

Abstract

The purpose of this article is to update practitioners on the latest published research into the prevalence of prolonged cerebral seizure activity following electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). This research is drawing attention to the real practical challenges of recording and reading an electroencephalogram (EEG) tracing in the ECT clinic. In particular, determination of the seizure end-point is not always practicable and this poses a major problem in the detection and management of prolonged cerebral seizure activity. Some practical tips are suggested, and an update is given on the status of EEG monitoring in the assessment of seizure adequacy.