electroconvulsive therapy

[ ih-lek-troh-kuh n-vuhl-siv, ih-lek- ]
/ ɪˈlɛk troʊ kənˈvʌl sɪv, ɪˌlɛk- /

noun Psychiatry.

a treatment for serious mental illnesses, as severe depressive disorders, involving the application to the head of electric current in order to induce a seizure: usually administered after sedatives and muscle relaxants. Abbreviation: ECT
Also called electroshock.
Compare shock therapy.

Origin of electroconvulsive therapy

First recorded in 1945–50; electro- + convulsive

British Dictionary definitions for electroconvulsive therapy

electroconvulsive therapy
/ (ɪˌlɛktrəʊkənˈvʌlsɪv) /

noun

med the treatment of certain psychotic conditions by passing an electric current through the brain to induce coma or convulsions Abbreviation: ECT Also called: electroshock therapy See also shock therapy

Medical definitions for electroconvulsive therapy

electroconvulsive therapy

n.

Administration of electric current to the brain through electrodes placed on the head, usually near the temples, in order to induce unconsciousness and brief convulsions. Used in the treatment of certain mental disorders, especially acute depression. electroshock electroshock therapy

Scientific definitions for electroconvulsive therapy

electroconvulsive therapy
[ ĭ-lĕk′trō-kən-vŭlsĭv ]

Administration of electric current to the brain through electrodes placed on the head, usually near the temples, in order to induce unconsciousness and brief seizures. It is used in the treatment of certain psychiatric disorders, especially severe depression.