EECP is medical equipment that has been in use for over 50 years since its invention. Initially designed for the treatment of angina (chest pain) symptoms from coronary artery stenosis, the use of EECP has been developed and extended to combat other conditions beyond heart disease.
How does EECP work?
An individual undergoing EECP therapy is asked to lie comfortably on the bed, whilst 2 pneumatic cuffs are fastened around the legs and one on the upper thigh (as shown in the picture below). The cuffs are rhythmically inflated and deflated to mirror the rate of the patient’s heart, which is monitored using an ECG to ensure an in sync rhythm. These mechanical cycles will assist in returning blood from the toes to the waist, and finally back to the heart for a greater cardiac output as well as nourishing the heart with oxygen.
This mimics the beneficial effects that are achieved from performing certain exercises, such as running, but does so passively as no external strain is placed on the working heart. Research has shown that, like exercise, EECP users discover improvements in cardiovascular function such as reduced angina and ischaemic fatigue, enhanced workout capacity, increase coronary density/growth of new blood vessels, effectiveness of vessel walls. All these have a positive impact blood pressure, blood sugar levels, and significantly increase delivery of blood to other vital organs (e.g. brain, liver) around the body.
What do I need to consider before EECP therapy?
Ø After consulting with the doctor, patients may be required to undertake additional medical examinations to detect any conditions that may comprise their ability to receive EECP e.g. visible veins on abdomen. Additionally, patients suffering from heart disease may be asked to perform an ultrasound to determine the strength and capability of their heart.
Ø EECP therapy should be received in at least 10-35 sessions consecutively, with each session lasting 1 hour, performed once or twice a day according to the doctor’s instructions.
Ø Evidence collected from previous studies of people with heart disease suggest that in 80% of patients, EECP treatment provides symptom relief after 35 sessions (1 course). From this group, 70% report continued relief for a period of 2-5 years.
Ø Previous data suggests that patients suffering from brain disorders such as cerebrovascular stenosis, Parkinson’s or Alzheimer’s, are recommended to take 1-2 courses consecutively.
Ø Patients with other conditions including diabetes, high blood pressure, and sexual dysfunction are advised to attend at least 20 sessions.
Ø Patients reporting improvements after completing the first course are still advised to continue maintenance treatment, which can be
