Exploring the impact of electroconvulsive therapy on intracranial pressure: A study of optic nerve sheath diameter measurements

ObjectiveThis study investigated the effects of Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) on intracranial pressure (ICP) by measuring the optic nerve sheath diameter (ONSD) using ultrasonography. While ECT is a common and effective treatment for various psychiatric disorders, its impact on cerebral hemodynamics, particularly ICP, remains unclear. Previous research suggests that ECT may increase cerebral blood flow and oxygen consumption, potentially elevating ICP. However, there is limited direct evidence linking ECT to measurable ICP changes.MethodsIn this study, ONSD was measured at 4 time points during ECT in 24 patients, including pre-ECT, post-induction, post-ictal, and in the post-anesthesia care unit (PACU).ResultsThe results showed no statistically significant changes in ONSD, indicating that ECT does not significantly alter ICP based on this non-invasive measurement.ConclusionThese findings suggest that, at least in the context of this study, ECT does not lead to clinically relevant changes in ICP.