Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT)
Psychiatry · Psychiatry
15-20 minutes per session
Duration
Outpatient
Setting
Rest for 1-2 hours post-session; mild headache, confusion, and short-term memory issues are common; arrange transport; course is usually 6-12 sessions
Recovery
₹5,000 - ₹15,000 per session+
Cost
📖About Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT)
A brief controlled electrical stimulus is applied to the brain under general anesthesia to induce a therapeutic seizure. Used for severe treatment-resistant depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and catatonia. Highly effective for appropriate indications.
Duration
15-20 minutes per session
Setting
Outpatient
Recovery
Rest for 1-2 hours post-session; mild headache, confusion, and short-term memory issues are common; arrange transport; course is usually 6-12 sessions
Cost Range
₹5,000 - ₹15,000 per session
Anaesthesia
General anesthesia
Success Rate
75%
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📋Indications — Who Needs This Procedure?
- 1Unexplained symptoms requiring diagnostic clarification or confirmation
- 2Monitoring of a known condition to assess treatment response or disease progression
- 3Pre-operative workup to confirm fitness or guide surgical planning
- 4Screening in high-risk individuals as per clinical guidelines
- 5Therapeutic intervention where non-invasive or conservative options have been inadequate
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🔬How the Procedure is Performed
- 1Check-in and pre-procedure assessment — vitals, allergy review, consent signing
- 2Administration of general anesthesia to ensure comfort throughout
- 3Execution of the core procedure: a brief controlled electrical stimulus is applied to the brain under general anesthesia to induce a therapeutic seizure. used for severe treatment-resistant depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and catatonia. highly effective for appropriate indications.
- 4Real-time monitoring of vital signs and patient response throughout
- 5Completion and immediate post-procedure observation in the recovery area
- 6Results or imaging reviewed by the specialist; findings communicated to the patient
✅Benefits
- 1Accurate diagnosis enabling targeted and timely treatment
- 2Minimally invasive with significantly lower risk compared to open surgery
- 3Most procedures are outpatient — no overnight hospital stay required
- 4Documented success rate of 75% when performed at accredited facilities
- 5Rapid turnaround — results or therapeutic effect within Rest for 1-2 hours post-session; mild headache, confusion, and short-term memory issues are common; arrange transport; course is usually 6-12 sessions
Star Health Insurance
FeaturedIndia's #1 Standalone Health Insurer
Comprehensive health cover for individuals & families from ₹299/month. Cashless treatment at 14,000+ hospitals across India.
📝Pre-Procedure Preparation
- 1Psychiatric evaluation and consent
- 2fasting 6-8 hours
- 3blood tests and ECG
- 4anesthesia review
- 5stop anticholinergic medications
- 6remove dentures
⚠️Risks & Considerations
- 1Adverse reaction to general anesthesia — rare but possible
- 2Temporary soreness, bruising, or swelling at the procedure site
- 3Small risk of infection if the procedure involves any breach of the skin or mucosa
- 4Incomplete result requiring a repeat procedure or alternative investigation
- 5Rare serious complications — discussed in detail during informed consent
🩹Recovery & Aftercare
- 1Rest for the remainder of the day; light activity may resume the following day
- 2Follow all post-procedure dietary or activity restrictions provided by your care team
- 3Take any prescribed medications as directed; do not self-medicate
- 4Attend follow-up appointments to review results and discuss next steps
- 5Contact your specialist immediately if you experience severe pain, fever, or unusual symptoms
Procedure Journey — What to Expect
Before the Procedure
Fasting, skin prep, consent signing, IV access setup. Anaesthesia or sedation administered if required.
During the Procedure
The Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) is performed. Vital signs monitored continuously. Duration typically Rest for 1-2 hours post-session; mild headache, confusion, and short-term memory issues are common; arrange transport; course is usually 6-12 sessions from start to finish.
Immediate Recovery
Monitored in recovery bay until stable. Mild sedation wears off. Results may be communicated the same day.
Follow-up & Results
Review with your specialist within 1–2 weeks. Next steps discussed based on findings. Additional procedures may be recommended.
Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) Cost in India (2024–25)
| Component | Govt / Budget | Private |
|---|---|---|
| Specialist / Radiologist Fee | ₹500 – ₹2,000 | ₹2,000 – ₹8,000 |
| Facility / Procedure Room | ₹1,000 – ₹5,000 | ₹5,000 – ₹20,000 |
| Anaesthesia / Sedation | ₹1,000 – ₹3,000 | ₹3,000 – ₹10,000 |
| Contrast / Consumables | ₹500 – ₹2,000 | ₹2,000 – ₹8,000 |
| Follow-up Consultation | ₹300 – ₹800 | ₹800 – ₹2,500 |
* Estimates for India 2024–25. CGHS / Ayushman Bharat may cover eligible procedures. Costs vary by city, centre, and complexity.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT)?+
A brief controlled electrical stimulus is applied to the brain under general anesthesia to induce a therapeutic seizure. Used for severe treatment-resistant depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and catatonia. Highly effective for appropriate indications.
Who needs Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT)?+
Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) is recommended for patients with specific symptoms, abnormal test results, or as part of a planned treatment pathway. Your Psychiatry specialist will evaluate your suitability.
What type of anaesthesia is used?+
Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) is typically performed with General anesthesia. The anaesthesia team will review your health history and allergies before the procedure.
How long does the procedure take?+
The typical duration is noted in the quick stats above. This may vary depending on complexity and individual patient factors.
What are the risks of Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT)?+
Risks include minor discomfort, bruising, rare infection, and in some cases incomplete results requiring repeat testing. Serious complications are uncommon but are discussed at consent.
What is the success rate of Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT)?+
Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) has a documented success rate of 75% at accredited centres. Individual outcomes depend on the underlying condition, patient health, and care team expertise.
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⚕️ Medical Disclaimer
This page is for informational purposes only. Always consult a qualified specialist before deciding on any procedure. In emergencies, call 112.