Lack of effect of ECT on Holter monitor recordings before and after treatment.
OBJECTIVE
There has been concern about persisting cardiac effects of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). Several studies have analyzed Holter monitor recordings before and after ECT, and generally have found no significant effects.


METHODS
As part of a study on heart rate variability changes in ECT, we performed 2-3 hour Holter monitoring before and at least 1 hour after courses of ECT in 11 depressed patients without cardiac illness.


RESULTS
There was no significant difference before and after Ect in heart rate, frequency ofventricular or supraventricular events, or in ST segments.


CONCLUSIONS
These date provide further evidnece of the general cardiac safety of ECT.
Rasmussen
Keith G
KG
Department of Psychiatry and Psychology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota 55905, USA. rasmussen.keith@mayo.edu
Karpyak
Victor M
VM
Hammill
Stephen C
SC
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D003866:Depressive Disorder / Q000628:therapy; D015716:Electrocardiography, Ambulatory; D004565:Electroconvulsive Therapy / Q000009:adverse effects*; D005260:Female; D006339:Heart Rate; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged