Electroconvulsive Therapy in Severe Agitation in Alzheimer's Dementia
Rochester, MN
McLean hospital, Mayo Clinic, Emory University, LIJ/Northwell, and Pine Rest Mental Health are conducting a research study using Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) to treat agitation in dementia. ECT is a treatment done under general anesthesia, in which brief electric currents are passed through the brain to trigger a brief seizure. It is a safe and highly effective treatment for depression.
Agitation is common in nearly 60% of patients with dementia, increases caretaker burden, creates safety risk for individuals with dementia and others and increases risk for hospitalization and nursing home placement.
While ECT ...