.png)
EECP Introduction
EECP (Enhanced External Counter-Pulsation) is an approved treatment method by the United States Food & Drug Administration (FDA) to cure Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) & also to manage refractory angina. It's a non-invasive and non-surgical procedure that helps combat CAD. It has three sets of pneumatic cuffs controlled by an electronic mechanism that sequentially inflates and deflates to impact the blood flow and systole-diastole function.Role Or Importance Of EECP Treatment
In Angina:Many studies from different institutes show EECP as useful for treating Chronic Stable Angina (CSA). In random trials, it revealed that EECP significantly improved both the symptoms of angina & and exercise tolerance in patients with CAD. It enhances the quality of a patient’s life when compared to placebo therapy.
In Congestive Heart Failure
EECP increases pressure in the arteries by affecting the systole & diastole functions. The increased pressure leads to the opening of the blockage/congestion between arteries. This process ensures smooth blood flow. This intervention is a non-surgical method of treating heart attack patients in cases of emergencies.
In Hypertension
A study revealed that patients who received EECP therapy had a significant reduction in systolic blood pressure. They had no record & effect on diastolic blood pressure /heart rate. This effect improves hypertension in patients.
In Non-Cardiac Condition
Other than cardiac issues, EECP treatment can be beneficial for patients suffering from Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS), Erectile Dysfunction (ED), Hepatorenal Syndrome (HRS), Syndrome X, and Retinal Artery Occlusion.
Although not approved by the FDA, EECP therapy has proven effects on transdermal oxygen absorption and RBC concentration. It considerably reduces transdermal carbon dioxide pressure and velocity of blood cells in healthy subjects probably due to peripheral vasodilatation.
The essential role of EECP treatment as a non-surgical treatment for many cardiac dysfunctional issues is well known. Though the treatment draws criticism, medical advancement in the future will overcome this shortcoming.