Maintenance electroconvulsive therapy.

Maintenance electroconvulsive therapy remains an infrequently used and insufficiently researched treatment for the prevention of relapse and recurrence of affective illnesses. The foundation for this treatment is examined by reviewing the relevant scientific literature, with particular attention to identifying those patients who may benefit most from this form of therapy, as well as establishing standard techniques of application. A critical assessment of current research is made, and areas for future investigation are proposed.