Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) is a medical treatment most commonly used for patients with severe major depression or bipolar disorder that has not responded to other treatments. It involves a brief electrical stimulation of the brain while the patient is under anesthesia. Despite the stigma associated with its early use, ECT has significantly evolved and is considered a safe and effective intervention for certain psychiatric disorders. It was first introduced in 1930s, and has undergone numerous modifications in terms of both technique and safety. In modern practice, patients are given a muscle relaxant and put under general anesthesia before the procedure. Electrodes are placed at specific sites on the scalp, and a controlled electric current is passed through the brain, which causes a brief seizure. The mechanisms by which ECT works are still not fully understood, but it is believed to cause changes in brain chemistry that can quickly reverse symptoms of certain mental health conditions. ECT is typically administered two to three times a week, for a total of six to twelve treatments. The immediate side effects may include short-term memory loss, disorientation, and confusion, but these are usually transient. ECT can be life-saving, particularly for individuals with severe depression who are at high risk of suicide, or for those who cannot tolerate or do not respond to medication. As a treatment option, ECT must be considered with caution, and thorough discussions between the patient, their family, and the treatment team are necessary to address the risks and benefits. ECT is practiced under stringent medical guidelines to ensure patient safety and consent.
Market Dynamics:
Rising prevalence of mental health disorders such as treatment-resistant depression is a key driver augmenting the growth of global electroconvulsive therapy market. For instance, according to the World Health Organization (WHO), in 2020, more than 264 Mn people worldwide suffered from depression, and approximately 850,000 deaths are depression-related each year. Introduction of technologically advanced ECT devices with bilateral brief-pulse stimulus is further fueling the adoption.
However, side effects that are associated with ECT includes headache, nausea, confusion, and memory loss act as a major restraint. Development of targeted transcranial magnetic stimulation is an emerging opportunity.
Key features of the study:
Detailed Segmentation:
Global Electroconvulsive Therapy Market- Segmentation
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