Feasibility of Processed EEG during ECT
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Processed Electroencephalogram Monitoring using Narcotrend in Patients Receiving Electroconvulsive Therapy Treatment - A Feasibility Study
IRAS ID
317594
Contact name
David L Evans
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 3 months, 1 days
Research summary
Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is used in some people with severe mental health difficulties to control symptoms or provide temporary improvement. ECT involves the application of controlled current to the brain via electrodes placed on the head. A seizure is induced by this current and the quality of seizure is associated with the quality of outcome i.e. improvement in symptoms. This procedure is performed under anaesthesia to make the intervention both tolerable and reduce the risk of injury from the physical seizure.
It has been shown that the deeper the level of anaesthesia, the poorer the quality of seizure and the worse the clinical response. Anaesthesia for ECT attempts to achieve a balance between patient awareness of the procedure and impairing the effect of the therapy. Currently we are not aware of the depth of anaesthesia achieved prior to the administration of ECT.In this study we will assess the depth of anaesthesia achieved during routine ECT practice using a depth of anaesthesia monitor. The monitor measures the electric activity of the brain and converts this, using algorithms, to display an index reflecting the depth of anaesthesia. The processed EEG depth of anaesthesia monitor is routinely used in general anaesthetic practice.
REC name
London - Stanmore Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
23/PR/0823
Date of REC Opinion
8 Aug 2023
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion