The Enhanced External Counter Pulsation (EECP) program is recommended and should be considered in anybody who still has pain associated with angina pectoris despite maximal medical therapy and prior revascularization.

As evidenced by recent clinical trials, EECP is a remarkable new therapy for angina patients. This non-invasive technique increases oxygen-rich blood flow to the heart and to reduce the heart's workload. EECP uses no medications or interventions such as angioplasty or bypass surgery to provide relief of symptoms of angina. The benefits of EECP derive from its ability to create new blood vessels in the heart. This “Natural Bypass” happens as blood in the lower extremities is pumped back at high pressures to feed the heart muscle using cuff inflation. The major advantages of EECP include the non-invasive nature of this therapy, the overwhelming rate of success and lack of any significant complications associated with it.

The EECP program is performed over a series of several weeks, with a total of 36 one-hour sessions. Pressure cuffs on the legs are inflated in sequences. As a result, the blood vessels in the legs are gently compressed and the blood is forced back to the heart lowering the pressure the heart must pump against, increasing the rate of return of blood to the heart, and increasing blood pressure while the heart is resting. Results often include reduction of angina pain, decreased need for medication, increased level of exercise and increased level of blood flow to body extremities.

To determine if you are a candidate, please schedule an appointment for evaluation by calling the Stead Heart and Vascular Center at (909) 865-9831.