An alternative for patients with specific cardiovascular disorders is enhanced external counter pulse (EECP) therapy, a form of non-invasive surgery designed to improve heart blood flow. We offer EECP therapy at Pune’s Poona Preventive Cardiology Centre (PPCC) to assist patients in treating their heart health without requiring surgery.
Advantages of EECP Therapy
Non-Invasive Procedure: EECP is entirely non-invasive, involving no incisions or surgical procedures. Patients lie on a treatment table while cuffs wrapped around the legs inflate and deflate in sync with the heartbeat, promoting increased blood flow to the heart.
Symptom Relief: Many patients experience a reduction in angina symptoms, such as chest pain and discomfort, after completing the therapy. This improvement can lead to enhanced exercise tolerance and a better quality of life.
Better Blood Flow: EECP encourages the development of new blood vessels, or collateral circulation, which may improve an ischemia symptom and improve oxygen delivery to the heart muscle.
Reduced Medication Dependence: Some patients may find that they can reduce their reliance on certain cardiovascular medications after undergoing EECP therapy, potentially decreasing medication-related side effects.
Outpatient Treatment: EECP is typically administered in an outpatient setting, allowing patients to return home after each session without the need for hospitalization.
Disadvantages of EECP Therapy
Time Commitment: The standard EECP treatment protocol involves 35 one-hour sessions, usually conducted over seven weeks (five days a week). This schedule requires a significant time commitment from patients.
Potential Discomfort: Some patients may experience discomfort due to the pressure exerted by the cuffs during inflation and deflation cycles. Skin irritation or bruising can also occur in areas where the cuffs are applied.
Not Suitable for All Patients: EECP therapy may not be appropriate for individuals with certain medical conditions, such as severe peripheral artery disease, significant valve disease, or uncontrolled hypertension. A thorough medical evaluation is necessary to determine eligibility.
Variable Insurance Coverage: Several insurance plans may cover EECP therapy, and some patients may have trouble getting their money back. To find out about your options for coverage, it’s best to speak with your insurance provider.
Conclusion
EECP therapy offers a non-invasive alternative for managing certain heart conditions, with benefits including symptom relief and improved blood flow. However, it’s essential to consider the time commitment and assess whether this therapy aligns with your individual health needs. At Poona Preventive Cardiology Centre, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive evaluations to determine the most appropriate treatment options for our patients.