ECT

The abbreviation for electroconvulsive therapy, in which an electric current is passed through the brain to induce seizures in order to treat severe depression. It is sometimes administered under a short-lived general anaesthetic. Temporary amnesia is a possible side effect. ECT usually relieves depression more rapidly than drug treatment and may be lifesaving in severe depression that is resistant to other treatments.

 

Online Medical Dictionary: Your essential reference to over 5000 medical terms.