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External Counter-Pulsation ECP "Cardio Rejuvenation Therapy"
How does it Work? Patients usually receive ECP treatment for 35 hours divided into one or two 60-minute treatment sessions five days per week. Patients who undergo two treatment sessions in one day require rest between sessions. ECP treatment uses unique equipment to inflate and deflate a series of pneumatic compressive cuffs around the lower extremities. Treatment is administered on a padded table where three sets of electronically controlled inflation and deflation valves are located. These valves are connected to specially designed adjustable cuffs that are wrapped firmly, but comfortably around the patient's calves, lower thighs, and upper thighs, including the buttocks. The design of the cuffs permits significant pressure to be applied to the arteries and veins at relatively low air pressures. Running electrocardiogram signals through a microprocessor that monitors the treatment process regulates timing for inflation and deflation. While the heart is at rest the cuffs are inflated in rapid sequence from the calves upward, creating a pressure wave that increases diastolic pressure, coronary artery perfusion pressure, and blood flow to the heart muscle. This compression of the blood vessels in the legs also increases the volume of blood returned to the right side of the heart via the venous system. Instantaneous deflation of all cuffs at the onset of the heart's contraction lowers the resistance the heart must pump against, decreasing the heart's workload. This latter effect, when coupled with increased venous return, significantly raises cardiac output. The overall effect is to increase the oxygen supply of the heart, while decreasing its oxygen demand. Significant obstruction in one or more coronary arteries can create a pressure difference between areas of the heart muscle that receive and those that do not receive enough blood. Repeated and pulsed increases in pressure during diastole may stimulate opening or formation of collateral channels across this pressure gradient within the heart muscle, resulting in increased blood supply to deprived tissues. The body has its own solution to an inadequate blood supply caused by blocked or partially blocked arteries. When an artery is severely narrowed, the body can increase the amount of blood flowing to the heart muscle by opening up small branches of nearby arteries. Known as collateral circulation, these networks of blood vessels create new routes for blood to detour around clogged arteries. ECP treatment can reduce or eliminate the frequency and intensity of chest pain, decrease the need for medication, and greatly improve the ability to participate in activities of daily living. After receiving ECP treatment, patients often are able to enjoy moderate exercise for the first time since developing angina. The development of a collateral circulation is particularly important in the heart muscle where it may be life saving. However, the development of collateral circulation is a gradual process, and not everyone has the same ability to develop these networks. ECP treatment appears to stimulate the natural process of developing collateral circulation, but there are probably other, yet unexplained, mechanisms that contribute to the long-lasting effects of ECP treatment. What Other Conditions Benefit From ECP? ECP isn’t just a powerful therapy for angina. Virtually any condition in which poor circulation is a contributing factor can benefit from ECP. Here is just a partial list:
Congestive heart failure
Research Studies & Demonstrated Results Angina
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