The study will apply state of the art radiology through advanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) techniques to investigate structural and functional brain effects of ECT.
As a multi-disciplinary collaboration, imaging findings will be correlated to psychiatric response parameters, neuropsychological functioning as well as neurochemical and genetic biomarkers that can elucidate the underlying mechanisms. The aim is to document both treatment effects and potential harmful effects of ECT. Sample: n = 40 patients in a major depressive episode (bipolar and major depressive disorder). Two control groups with n = 15 in each group: age and gender matched healthy volunteers not receiving ECT and patients undergoing electrical cardioversion (ECV) for atrial fibrillation (AF). Observation time: six months.
Study Type
OBSERVATIONAL
Enrollment
80
Changes from baseline in Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) derived parameters
MRI of the brain is segmented into Regions of Interest by automated processing pipelines
Time frame: Before (baseline), during, after (typically 1-2 weeks after last ECT) and at follow up (6 months after treatment)
Changes from baseline in Depression ratings
Symptoms scores on Montgomery-Åsberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS)
Time frame: Before (baseline), during, after (typically 1-2 weeks after last ECT) and at follow up (6 months after treatment)
Changes from baseline in Neurocognitive functioning
Neurocognitive assessments
Time frame: Before (baseline), after (typically 1-2 weeks after last ECT) and at follow up (6 months after treatment)
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