Electroconvulsive Therapy

In this extensive revision of his comprehensive textbook on ECT, Dr. Richard Abrams draws upon his broad clinical experience and intimate knowledge of the literature to provide a unique guide to ECT that stresses both the medical physiology of the procedure and its application to the high-risk patient. Now illustrated with many graphs and figures, the new text is over 100 pages longer than the first edition and contains more than 300 new references. The chapter on management of the high-risk patient has been greatly expanded, as has the section on the technique of ECT, which is now divided into two chapters: Theory and Praxis. Of particular importance to clinicians are Dr. Abrams' updated and exquisitely-detailed stepwise guide to the practical administration of ECT, his new recommendations for maximizing the therapeutic yield of ECT, and his advice on optimal handling of its medico-legal aspects, based on his extensive experience as an expert witness. In full accordance with the American Psychiatric Association's new guidelines for the practice of ECT, this essential resource remains the primary reference and guide for those who prescribe, perform, or assist with ECT.