Electroconvulsive therapy in 77-year-old patient with pacemaker: A case report

Abstract

The treatment of a 77-year-old patient suffering from severe psychotic depression with a cardiac pacemaker is described. Because of treatment-resistant depression, electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) was introduced. In the course of ECT, there was a great improvement in his mental state without any cardiac complications. This case may be evidence for the safety and effectiveness of ECT in the elderly, even with cardiac comorbidities. Some recommendations for ECT in patients with pacemakers are discussed.