Placement of an implantable venous access device for use in maintenance ECT.

Abstract

Achieving intravenous (i.v.) access prior to electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) can be painful and time consuming. It may contribute to premature discontinuation of therapy. The authors report a novel method of ensuring i.v. access in a patient receiving maintenance ECT who developed an aversion to needle sticks. A Port-A-Cath P.A.S. vascular access catheter, placed in her left forearm, has been used for > 30 treatments without complication.