Electroconvulsive therapy in Massachusetts.

A study of the use of electroconvulsive therapy in Massachusetts shows that between 1974 and 1980 ECT use decreased significantly in both public- and private-sector hospitals. This decline was particularly pronounced in public-sector hospitals. The average age of ECT-treated patients rose during the period; women received ECT more often than men; and bilateral ECT remained in more frequent use. Though ECT was most frequently prescribed for major depression, about 20% of those receiving it were diagnosed as having a dysthymic disorder. State regulation and advances in psychiatric treatment may partially explain the decrease in ECT use.