Heart diseases are on the rise globally, with an increasing number of patients undergoing Angioplasty or Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG) to manage Angina and Coronary Artery Disease (CAD). However, many patients experience recurring symptoms and exhausted treatment options. Enhanced External Counter Pulsation (EECP) Therapy is a non-invasive treatment that offers a "Natural Bypass Surgery Alternative" by stimulating collateral blood flow around blocked coronary arteries, potentially improving heart function and overall quality of life. At Anvi™ Multispeciality Clinic, Dr. Asmita Chaturvedi, M.D. (Internal Medicine), leads EECP therapy sessions, providing patients with a viable option to enhance cardiac perfusion and improve heart health without surgery.
Frequently Asked Questions about EECP Therapy
What is EECP Therapy?
EECP therapy, also known as Enhanced External Counter Pulsation, is a non-invasive outpatient treatment used to manage cardiovascular conditions like Angina, Heart Failure, and Coronary Artery Disease. It is often referred to as the "Natural Bypass Treatment."
How does EECP Therapy work?
EECP uses pneumatic cuffs placed around the legs and buttocks. These cuffs inflate and deflate in sync with the heart's rhythm, creating a "counter-pulse" that enhances blood flow to the coronary arteries, promoting natural collateral circulation.
Is EECP Therapy invasive?
No, EECP is a completely non-invasive treatment, making it suitable for patients who are not candidates for invasive procedures like angioplasty or bypass surgery.
What does "Counter Pulsation" mean in EECP?
Counter pulsation refers to the pressure generated by the sequential inflation of the pneumatic cuffs, which enhances blood flow during the heart's relaxation phase (diastole), increasing coronary perfusion.
Who can benefit from EECP Therapy?
EECP is ideal for patients with:
Coronary Artery Disease
Refractory angina
Those awaiting invasive procedures like angioplasty or CABG
Individuals unfit for surgery
Patients who have undergone angioplasty or CABG but still experience symptoms
Heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (EF 35%)
What are the benefits of EECP Therapy?
EECP can improve symptoms, exercise capacity, walking distance, and overall quality of life for heart patients. It has also been shown to enhance circulation to other vital organs, including the brain and kidneys.
What is the treatment protocol?
EECP therapy typically involves 35-40 sessions, each lasting 45-60 minutes. Patients are monitored for vital signs like blood pressure and ECG throughout the sessions to ensure safety.
At Anvi™ Multispeciality Clinic, EECP therapy is customized and administered under the supervision of Dr. Asmita Chaturvedi, ensuring that patients receive optimal care.
Is EECP Therapy safe?
Yes, EECP therapy is a safe, non-invasive procedure. The FDA has approved it, and it has been shown to be effective in improving cardiac function in certain patients. Because it doesn't involve surgery or anesthesia, the risks are minimal compared to traditional invasive treatments.
How long does it take to see results from EECP Therapy?
Most patients start experiencing relief from symptoms like chest pain and shortness of breath after 10-15 sessions. However, for long-term benefits, a full course of 35-40 sessions is recommended, with improvements continuing even after the treatment period.
What does an EECP session feel like?
During an EECP session, patients may feel rhythmic pressure from the cuffs as they inflate and deflate. Some describe it as a gentle squeezing sensation. The process is generally well-tolerated, and patients can read or watch TV during the session.
Can EECP Therapy Replace Angioplasty or Bypass Surgery?
EECP therapy is not a direct replacement for angioplasty or bypass surgery. Still, it can be used as a complementary treatment or an alternative for patients who are not suitable candidates for surgery. It can help improve circulation in cases where surgical intervention is not possible or has already been done, but symptoms persist.
Is EECP Therapy covered by insurance?
Some insurance providers recognize EECP therapy, but coverage may vary. It is best to check with your insurance company to determine whether this treatment is covered under your plan.
Are there any side effects of EECP Therapy?
Side effects are rare, but some patients may experience mild discomfort from the pressure cuffs or temporary skin bruising in the areas where the cuffs are applied. Most patients tolerate the therapy well without significant issues.
Who should avoid EECP Therapy?
Patients with conditions like severe peripheral vascular disease, uncontrolled hypertension, arrhythmias, or those who have had recent deep vein thrombosis may not be suitable for EECP therapy. A thorough medical evaluation is required before starting treatment.
Can EECP Therapy help with conditions other than heart disease?
While EECP is primarily used for treating cardiovascular issues, studies suggest it may also improve circulation to other vital organs, potentially benefiting patients with conditions like kidney disease, diabetes, or cognitive decline. Still, more research is needed.
Can I resume my normal activities during EECP treatment?
Yes, EECP therapy is an outpatient procedure, and most patients can continue their regular activities, including work, during the treatment period. However, it’s always best to follow your doctor’s specific recommendations based on your condition.
How often do I need to undergo EECP sessions?
EECP therapy is typically administered five days a week for 7-8 weeks, depending on the patient’s condition. Each session lasts about 45-60 minutes. Consistency is important to achieve the best results.
Does EECP Therapy require any special preparation?
No special preparation is needed before undergoing EECP therapy. Patients are encouraged to wear comfortable clothing to allow proper fitting of the pneumatic cuffs. You should also continue your regular medications unless instructed otherwise by your doctor.
Can EECP Therapy help prevent future heart problems?
While EECP therapy can improve blood flow and reduce symptoms in patients with existing cardiovascular issues, it is not a guaranteed preventive measure for future heart problems. However, it may help improve heart function and overall cardiovascular health, potentially lowering the risk of future complications when combined with lifestyle changes and medications.
How does EECP Therapy differ from other non-invasive heart treatments?
EECP therapy is unique because it actively enhances blood flow to the heart using external pressure, promoting natural bypasses without surgery. Other non-invasive treatments, such as medication or lifestyle modifications, manage symptoms but do not directly improve coronary blood flow in the same way.
Will I feel tired after an EECP session?
Most patients do not feel fatigued after EECP therapy and can resume their regular daily activities immediately. Some may feel relaxed or experience mild soreness, but this typically resolves quickly.
What happens if I miss a session?
While consistency is important for optimal results, missing a session or two is generally not an issue. However, it's important to inform your doctor so that the treatment plan can be adjusted if necessary
Can I combine EECP with other heart treatments or medications?
Yes, EECP therapy is often used in conjunction with other treatments, such as medication or lifestyle changes. It is considered complementary and does not interfere with most other heart treatments, though you should always consult with your doctor before making any changes to your treatment plan.
Are there any dietary or lifestyle changes I should make during EECP therapy?
Patients are encouraged to adopt heart-healthy lifestyle choices, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, and stress management during EECP therapy. These changes can enhance the benefits of the treatment and contribute to long-term heart health.
Still, Have Questions about EECP Therapy?
If any of your questions about EECP therapy remain unanswered, we encourage you to reach out to Anvi™ Multispeciality and EECP Clinic in Andheri, Mumbai. Our dedicated EECP specialists are here to assist you and provide the information you need. You can contact us by calling +919769912219, sending a message on WhatsApp, or filling out the contact form below. We’ll be more than happy to guide you through the process and help you explore if EECP is the right option for your heart health.
