Airway Complications in Pregnant Patients Undergoing Electroconvulsive Therapy: A Retrospective Case-Control Study.

Objectives: Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is an evidence-based treatment for severe depression and bipolar disorder in pregnant women. Electroconvulsive therapy involves induction of general anesthesia, muscle relaxation, and positive-pressure ventilation. Airway manipulation may lead to complications such as vocal cord injury, aspiration, inability to ventilate, and death.