Posted by alexandra_k on October 11, 2004, at 19:36:34
In reply to Re: Anyone here had ECT » alexandra_k, posted by iris2 on October 11, 2004, at 11:32:22
"Short-term memory loss has always been a concern to patients who receive ECT, but several studies conclude that patients who received unilateral ECT performed better on attention/memory tests than those who received bilateral ECT. However, there is a question as to whether unilateral is as effective. Experts agree that changes in memory function do occur & persist for a few days following treatment, but that patients return to normal within a month. A 1985 NIMH Consensus Conference concluded that while some memory loss is frequent after ECT, it is estimated that one-half of 1 percent of ECT patients suffer severe loss. Memory problems usually clear within 7 months of treatment, although there may be a persistent memory deficit for the period immediately surrounding the treatment."
http://www.medhelp.org/lib/ect.htm
"The memory loss associated with bilateral and nondominant unilateral ECT was assessed with verbal memory tests known to be sensitive to left temporal lobe dysfunction. Bilateral ECT markedly impaired delayed retention of verbal and nonverbal material. Right unilateral ECT impaired delayed retention of nonverbal material without measurably affecting retention of verbal material. Nonverbal memory was affected less by right unilateral ECT than by bilateral ECT. These findings, taken together with a consideration of the clinical efficacy of the two types of treatment, make what appears to be a conclusive case for unilateral over bilateral ECT."
http://www.healthyplace.com/Communities/Depression/ect/effects/squire/squire.asp
I am not sure on any more with respect to verbal ability. The language production and comprehension areas are (typically) in the left hemisphere, though, so that is why it is wise to leave that side alone. I am not sure with respect to particular language deficits that people may have. Sorry
poster:alexandra_k
thread:400993
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20041007/msgs/401825.html