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Should They Be Reevaluated?

Robert K. Davies, MD; Thomas P. Detre, MD; M. David Egger, PhD; Gary J. Tucker, MD; Robert J. Wyman, PhD

Arch Gen Psychiatry. 1971;25(2):97-99.

Abstract
An investigation of two widely used ECT machines has shown that in one instance the instrument did not meet the manufacturer's specifications, and in both cases ordinary use may increase the possibility of delivering currents which exceed minimal levels necessary to produce a seizure. In the interests of accuracy, efficacy, and sound clinical practice, it is suggested that ECT machines be provided with automatic voltage and timing devices and that professional regulation of such machines be established.

Author Affiliations
New Haven, Conn

From the departments of psychiatry (Drs. Davies, Detre, and Tucker), anatomy (Dr. Egger), and biology (Dr. Wyman), Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Conn.

Footnotes
Accepted for publication Feb 22, 1971.

Reprint requests to Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, 333 Cedar St, New Haven, Conn 06510 (Dr. Davies).