Objekt 1167
Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT)
Description
In the 1930s, methods were developed to induce epileptic seizures. It was assumed at the time that epilepsy and schizophrenia were mutually exclusive diseases.
With the electroconvulsive device developed in 1938, epileptic seizures could be induced by applying small electrical impulses to the brain. To avoid strains or fractures during the seizures, the treatment was soon carried out with anaesthetics and muscle relaxants. Even though the original thesis proved to be false, the technique showed a positive effect in some cases. However, it fell into disrepute, partly due to the film 'One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest'. ECT has only recently been reintroduced in a modified form for the treatment of severe depression.
Object description
Electroconvulsive apparatus
Inv. 2018.500.
Rubber wedge to protect the tongue and teeth
Inv. 2018.501.
Resuscitation and ventilation apparatus
Inv. 2018.502.