Medical evaluation and risk stratification before ECT are recommended to manage coexisting cardiovascular conditions and reduce post-procedure complications.
In evaluating patients before electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), especially those with conditions such as hypertension, coronary artery disease, and congestive heart failure, the medical consultant should undertake risk stratification, assess management of coexisting conditions, and use strategies to reduce the risk of such post-ECT complications as prolonged blood-pressure elevation, myocardial ischemia, and headache.
Tess et al. (Wed,) studied this question.