Electroconvulsive therapy and falls in the elderly.
Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is commonly used in the practice of geriatric psychiatry. Although it has been found to be both safe and effective, one of the most common complications associated with ECT is falls. A logistic regression model was created to identify independent risk factors for falls in the elderly. Two risk factors were identified: the number of ECT treatments and the diagnosis of Parkinson disease. Further studies are needed to develop strategies aimed at reducing the number of falls. In the meantime, clinicians need to be aware that falls represent an important complication associated with ECT.
de Carle
A J
AJ
Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island 02906, USA.
Kohn
R
R
D000058:Accidental Falls / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D000368:Aged / Q000502:physiology*; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D003866:Depressive Disorder / Q000150:complications / Q000523:psychology / Q000628:therapy; D004565:Electroconvulsive Therapy / Q000009:adverse effects*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007902:Length of Stay; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D016017:Odds Ratio; D011569:Psychiatric Status Rating Scales; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D012307:Risk Factors