Enhanced external counterpulsation

A noninvasive treatment for angina pectoris and congestive heart failure involving the use of inflatable cuffs on the patient’s legs to improve myocardial perfusion and increase cardiac output. Cuffs placed on the calves, lower thighs, and upper thighs are inflated sequentially during diastole when coronary artery filling occurs. The inflated cuffs increase diastolic central aortic pressure, increase blood flow to the coronary arteries, and may enhance collateral blood flow. The cuffs are rapidly deflated at the beginning of systole, decreasing afterload and left ventricular oxygen requirements and increasing stroke volume. Computer interpretation of the electrocardiogram determines the timing of cuff inflation and deflation. EECP is provided 5 days a week for 7 weeks. Side effects may include fatigue, headache, and dizziness.


 


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