What is EECP?
EECP® is a trademarked brand used to describe the treatment of Enhanced External Counterpulsation Therapy. EECP is a non-invasive treatment procedure used for patients that suffer from symptoms of Angina such Chest Pain, Shortness of Breath and Fatigue caused by narrowed or blocked arteries . EECP Therapy is a low risk of any potential complications that are associated with other traditional invasive surgical procedures.
What are the Benefits of EECP?
EECP is a rehabilitation program that provides external cardiac assistance on a daily basis for a period of 35 days. The primary benefits of EECP include an increase in energy & exercise tolerance much like an aerobic exercise program. The increase in oxygenated blood flow also provides great benefit to the body. This restoration of nutrient rich blood flow revives tissue in parts of the heart and body that are restricted or blocked. The heart benefits with an increase in cardiac output and a reduction in systemic vascular resistance. Patients that complete the 35 day treatment session will see improvements in symptoms of chest pain, shortness of breath, chronic fatigue (tiredness) as well as a significant improvement in exercise tolerance (energy).
What is the EECP Treatment Process?
EECP is a mechanical process that is proven in clinical studies to be a very effective in restoring oxygenated blood flow the heart muscle. A series of cuffs are placed at the calves, then the thighs and buttocks that squeeze in a precise mechanical sequence returning blood back the heart. This process is repeated on each heart cycle timed on the patients ECG signal or heart beat. The inflation or squeeze acts as a external cardiac assist device returning blood to the heart with great pressure during the resting phase or diastole. The squeeze process is performed and held (for milliseconds) and instantaneously deflated just prior to each systolic event (heart natural beat) of the extremities just prior to the next systolic event (or natural heart beat), This mechanical treatment is documented to promote growth of new vessels (also known as collaterals) around narrowed and blocked arteries of the heart. These newly developed paths of blood have profound benefits by increasing blood flow of oxygenated blood to feed the heart.
What is the Patient Qualifications for EECP?
Although EECP provides abundant benefits to the overall wellness of the patient, the current guidelines for Medicare & Private Insurance coverage are for those that suffer from Stable Angina from Ischemic Coronary Artery Disease. These are patients that have documented Coronary Artery Disease but whose lives are affected from conducting daily activity due to pain and discomfort. Patients that have symptoms of chest pain, shortness of breath & chronic fatigue from walking or physicial activity can be good candidates for treatment.
What is the Difference between EECP and EECP?
Even thought the acronyms are similar, there is no difference in the actual process or potential outcomes between EECP and ECP. ECP and EECP Therapy both employ the same treatment process and have the capability of achieving the clinical outcomes. ECP Therapy and EECP Therapy are FDA approved and covered by Medicare & private insurances.
EECP have been proven in clinical trials to be a safe and effective treatment procedure for more than 80% Patients that complete the 35 day treatment course. Patients see improvement in energy, exercise tolerance and improvement in quality of life parameters. Patients with Chest Pain often eliminate the need for nitrates and other medications.
How do I contact a Local ECP and EECP Treatment Center?
EECP & ECP Therapy is offered in over 1,000 medical facilities around the U.S. You can visit our Locate a Treatment Center to find a treatment facility near you. EECP is covered by Medicare and most private insurance companies with little or no cost to the patient.