Work

Electroconvulsive therapy in a patient with an implanted sacral neurostimulator: a case report on safe administration and short-term outcomes

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: We present a case of a 35-year-old patient with treatment-resistant depression and an implanted sacral neurostimulator for overactive bladder (OAB). The patient experienced an exacerbation of depression with suicidal ideation and failed multiple medication trials. Due to her significant history of adverse medication reactions and the severity of her condition, electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) was selected as a treatment option despite concerns about the safety of administering ECT with a sacral neurostimulator. To minimize potential risks, the device was placed in Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) mode during each ECT session, successfully avoiding electrical interference. She underwent three ECT sessions, which resulted in significant improvement in depressive symptoms and resolution of suicidal ideation without adverse effects on the device's integrity or OAB symptoms. This case highlights the feasibility and safety of ECT in patients with implanted sacral neurostimulators, emphasizing the importance of precautionary measures and individualized patient assessment. Further research is needed to explore the long-term effects of ECT on such devices and their impact on OAB.

Source: Frontiers in Psychiatry

DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2025.1563519

Authors: Jeet Janak Patel, Marcela Carbajal-Tamez, William Baumgartner, Cristina Abraham, Edison Leung, João Quevedo

Institution: The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston

Language: English

Topic: Electroconvulsive Therapy Studies

Subfield: Psychiatry and Mental health

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,801