What you need to know about Enhanced External Counterpulsation Treatment (EECP)

Enhanced External Counter Pulsation (EECP) is a non-invasive medical therapy used to treat certain cardiovascular conditions, particularly chronic stable angina and heart failure. It works by improving blood flow to the heart and reducing the workload on the heart muscle. Here's an explanation of how EECP works and its benefits:

 

Principle of EECP: EECP involves using external or pressure cuffs wrapped around the patient's legs (from calves to thighs) and connected to a computer-controlled air compressor. The cuffs inflate and deflate in sync with the patient's heartbeat, creating a pulsatile pressure wave that travels upward from the legs toward the heart. This process is synchronized with the ECG (electrocardiogram) to ensure it matches the patient's cardiac cycle.

 

Enhancing Blood Flow: During inflation of the cuffs, blood in the lower extremities is pushed upward toward the heart. This increase in blood flow is particularly beneficial for individuals with compromised coronary arteries, as it helps to supply more oxygen-rich blood to the heart muscle. Additionally, the diastolic phase of the cardiac cycle, when the heart relaxes and fills with blood, is extended due to the cuff deflation. This allows the heart to receive more blood and oxygen, further reducing the workload on the heart.

 

Benefits of EECP:

 

Symptom Relief: EECP is often used to alleviate symptoms of chronic stable angina (chest pain or discomfort) that do not respond well to other treatments. Patients typically experience reduced angina frequency and severity.

Improved Exercise Tolerance: EECP can enhance a patient's ability to engage in physical activities by improving cardiovascular function.

Reduced Heart Workload: By increasing diastolic blood flow and reducing afterload (the resistance the heart has to overcome to pump blood), EECP can reduce the overall workload on the heart.

Stimulation of Collateral Blood Vessels: EECP may encourage the development of collateral blood vessels, which can help bypass blocked or narrowed coronary arteries.

Treatment Course: A typical course of EECP treatment involves multiple one-hour sessions over several weeks. Patients are usually required to complete around 35 sessions, with five sessions per week. Each session involves lying on a specially designed treatment table with cuffs on the legs. The treatment is painless and non-invasive, allowing patients to relax, watch TV, or read during the sessions.

 

Safety and Considerations: EECP is generally considered safe but may not suit everyone. It's essential to consult with a healthcare professional to determine if it's an appropriate treatment option, as it may not be effective for all individuals with cardiovascular conditions.

 

EECP is a therapeutic option for select patients with specific heart conditions, and its effectiveness can vary from person to person. It should always be used under the guidance and supervision of a qualified healthcare provider.