Electroconvulsive therapy for a patient with metallic internal fixation in mandible

J ECT. 2012 Jun;28(2):e3-4. doi: 10.1097/YCT.0b013e318239c322.

Abstract

Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) in the presence of metal in the skull may cause concern among clinicians. The literature is sparse, with only a few case reports in this area. We present here a case where ECT was administered in a patient with metallic internal fixation for the fracture of mandible. The 37-year-old man presented with severe depression, suicide risk, and alcohol dependence. Administration of ECT was uneventful, with no complications during ECT or at follow-up; and there was successful resolution of symptoms. This case report demonstrates that ECT may be safe in the presence of metallic implants in mandible.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Letter

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Alcoholism / complications
  • Alcoholism / therapy
  • Anesthesia
  • Antidepressive Agents / therapeutic use
  • Depressive Disorder, Major / complications
  • Depressive Disorder, Major / therapy
  • Electroconvulsive Therapy / methods*
  • Humans
  • Internal Fixators / adverse effects*
  • Male
  • Mandible*
  • Metals
  • Psychiatric Status Rating Scales
  • Suicide

Substances

  • Antidepressive Agents
  • Metals