Enhanced External Counter-Pulsation, or EECP, is a safe, highly effective, non-invasive treatment option that reduces or eliminates chest pain or other related symptoms. Generally, it is prescribed for patients who are still symptomatic after they have exhausted other treatment options, such as angioplasty, stents, bypass surgery and optimal medications.
EECP consists of 35, one-hour sessions, five days a week. Patients lie on a comfortable treatment table with large blood pressure-like cuffs on their calves, thighs and hips. Using a continuous EKG or electrocardiogram, the cuffs inflate sequentially from the ankles up between each heartbeat, increasing the pressure in the coronary arteries to the heart.
In a large study, 70 - 80 percent of patients who complete their prescribed treatment course report significant symptom relief, including less frequent and less severe chest pain, increased activity tolerance and increased energy levels. Some patients are even able to decrease some of their cardiac medications.
Most insurance companies cover treatment, although all plans should be checked for individual copays and deductibles.
A physician referral is required.
For more information, call 248-655-5750.