COMPARISON OF PROPOFOL AND METHOHEXITONE IN ANESTHESIA FOR ECT - EFFECT ON SEIZURE DURATION AND OUTCOME

The effect of the induction agents propofol and methohexitone on seizu re duration and clinical outcome was assessed in a prospective, random ised, double blind study in 32 depressed patients receiving electrocon vulsive therapy (ECT), Assessments comprised Hamilton rating scales pr e-ECT, weekly during the course, and at one month follow-up, Patients showed a significant improvement in depression as measured by the Hami lton rating scale across the course of the ECT treatment, This improve ment was not significantly different in the propofol and methohexitone groups, Nor was the amount of improvement related to either the total duration of seizure experienced by the patient during the ECT series or the use of tricyclic antidepressants by some patients.