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Enhanced External Counterpulsation (EECP) A noninvasive technique called enhanced external counterpulsation
(EECP) has been used successfully by over a million people in China and
is currently in trials in the US. The facility is available at Escorts
Heart Institute, and initial experience has shown beneficial effect in
certain cases. The technique uses an air pump that inflates and deflates
pressurized cuffs around the legs, causing blood to be pushed into the
heart. In different studies, it has relieved angina in over 75% of patients
who used it. The benefits persist, and there is some evidence that it
produces actual cellular changes that benefit the heart. Those with three
diseased vessels, however, do less well, and the procedure is not appropriate
for those with heart failure or blood clots in the legs. EECP will not
be likely to replace angioplasty or bypass, but it may reduce the need
for nitrates. |