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 of ventricular or supraventricular events, or in ST segments. Conclusion: These date provide further evidnece of the general cardiac safety of ECT.