What is EECP therapy?

Enhanced external counterpulsation (EECP) therapy is chest pain therapy approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). It treats long-term chest pain or pressure (chronic stable angina) that doesn't respond to other treatments. EECP therapy may also be recommended for some people who need a procedure to restore blood flow to their heart and aren't eligible for surgery.

EECP therapy uses pressure to improve your blood flow. It's a noninvasive, outpatient treatment. You typically receive the treatment over seven weeks.

How does EECP therapy work?

EECP treatment applies pressure to blood vessels in your lower limbs. The pressure increases blood flow back to your heart, so your heart works better. When your heart pumps better, symptoms ease.

This type of therapy can also encourage blood vessels to open new pathways for blood to flow to your heart. These pathways eventually become "natural bypass" vessels that help relieve symptoms of angina if your coronary arteries are narrowed or blocked.

What Are the Benefits of EECP Treatment?

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  Increased oxygen supply for the heart

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  Decrease in chest pain

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  Improved EKG response to exercise

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  Decrease in nitroglycerin use

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  Increase in energy

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  Increased exercise duration

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  Long term effects up to 2 years

Who is eligible for EECP therapy?

You may be eligible for EECP therapy if you:

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  Have long-term chest pain or pressure that comes and goes during physical activity or stress.

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  No longer experience relief with medication.

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  Don't qualify for an invasive procedure like surgery.

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  Experience renewed symptoms after an invasive procedure such as bypass surgery, angioplasty or stenting.