Principle of EECP
Enhanced external counterpulsation is a FDA approved, mechanical non-invasive therapy to help patients suffering from refractory angina, congestive heart failure, myocardial infarction or cardiogenic shock.
EECP has also been proved to improve the Wall shear stress which can act on endothelial cells by triggering the release and regulation of endothelial-derived substances affecting vasoactivity,
angiogenesis and inflammation.
It has been claimed that exalted external counterpulsation may help reduce aortic impedance and relieve some of the symptoms of angina. Now, it is used most often to treat patients who have angina that is refractory to standard medical therapy and are not eligible for revascularization, whether by bypass surgery or angioplasty.
After one or more revascularization surgeries, but still have recurrent angina pectoris, these patients are mostly treated with EECP. According to statistics, it accounts for more than 85% of patients receiving EECP in the United States.
Contraindication
(1) Moderate to severe aortic valve regurgitation;
(2) Dissecting aneurysm;
(3) Significant pulmonary hypertension;
(4) Various bleeding diseases or bleeding tendencies, or use of anticoagulants, INR>2.0;
(5) Valvular disease, congenital heart disease, cardiomyopathy;
(6) Active phlebitis and venous thrombosis;
(7) There is an infection focus in the counterpulsation limb;
(8) Uncontrolled high blood pressure (>170/110mmHg);
(9) Uncontrolled arrhythmias, including frequent premature beats, but patients with atrial fibrillation can still benefit;
(10) Severe left heart failure;
(11) Severe lower limb arterial occlusive disease;
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