Enduring Effects of Modified ECT on the Cerebral Circulation in Man

Abstract

The response of the cerebral circulation to modified ECT was monitored by computer programmes in 18 psychotic patients using cerebral impedance plethysmography. Each patient was recorded daily prior to, during and following the course of ECT. Results indicated that ECT was accompanied after 2 h by a marked increase in cerebral blood flow (CBF) in depressed patients; the schizophrenics showed a decrease in CBF. Patients whose blood flow had improved tended to return to previous levels progressively during the first week.