EECP, or
Enhanced External Counter Pulsation, is a non-invasive mechanical circulatory support device that
enhances heart function and promotes vascular regeneration.
Essentially, it is a therapy that counteracts the resistance of
heart vessel contractions. The system uses specialized inflatable
cuffs synchronized with the user's ECG waves and heartbeats,
applying counter-pressure to the lower limbs during diastole. This
increases venous return and cardiac output, thereby
accelerating blood circulation throughout the body.
The recommended treatment protocol is 1 hour per day, 5 days a
week, for 7 weeks, totaling 35 hours for a complete course.
The principle is based on triggering the R-wave of the ECG. During
the heart's diastolic phase, the cuffs sequentially inflate from
the distal to the proximal limbs, forcing blood from the limbs and
buttocks back to the aorta. This process
increases aortic pressure and blood volume, enhancing blood
perfusion to vital organs.
Before the heart enters systole, the cuffs deflate rapidly,
allowing the blood vessels to relax and reducing peripheral
resistance.
This cycle repeats with each heartbeat, achieving its
therapeutic effects.
Enhance Vascular Elasticity and
Promote Microvascular Growth
EECP creates pulsations within the blood vessels, effectively
massaging them.
This accelerates blood circulation throughout the body, acting as
a passive form of exercise—like running a marathon without effort
while lying down. Through regular vascular massage provided by
EECP, shear stress is generated within the vessels, promoting the
production of nitric oxide (NO). This process
helps improve endothelial function, increasing vascular
elasticity and promoting microvascular growth throughout the
body.
Additionally, it can
increase blood flow, dilate coronary arteries, enhance blood
oxygen levels, and stimulate the release of growth
factors,
helping to establish new microvascular networks, thereby improving
myocardial function and blood supply to vital organs.
COMPARISON
EECP vs. Cardiac Catheterization (Stent) vs. Coronary Artery
Bypass Surgery
EECP
Cardiac Catheterization (Stent)
Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery
Principle
Uses specialized inflatable cuffs for counterpulsation
Opens blocked arteries with a stent
Creates a new path for blood flow
Mortality Rate During Treatment
0%
Approximately 0.8-2.1%
Approximately 3-4%
Advantages and Disadvantages
No side effects, requires long-term treatment for
improvement
Requires anticoagulants post-surgery, may need additional
stents
Other vessels may become blocked again, may require a
second surgery
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ATTENTION
EECP Precautions
1
Not recommended for pregnant women.
2
EECP is not recommended for patients with severe valvular
heart disease, bleeding disorders, aortic aneurysms
requiring surgery, or those with thrombophlebitis or
infected limbs.
3
Some patients may experience mild lower back pain, localized
bruising or skin abrasions, headaches, dizziness, muscle
soreness, or fatigue after the procedure. These symptoms
typically resolve within 3-7 days.
4
For those with dry skin, applying lotion before the
procedure can help reduce friction and prevent blisters.
5
Avoid drinking large amounts of water before the procedure,
as the treatment increases renal blood flow, which can lead
to increased urination.
FAQ
About EECP
The cuffs apply pressure to the legs and buttocks, similar to a
massage. Most people can even fall asleep during the EECP
treatment.
EECP is often described as a passive exercise. Some patients may
feel fatigued after a few sessions, which is normal. After this
adjustment period, most users report feeling more energized.
According to the International EECP Patient Registry (IEPR), the
effects of completing a 35-hour EECP treatment can last up to 3
years. Other smaller studies suggest that some users may
experience benefits lasting up to 5 years.
Each patient responds differently, but most users report feeling
improvements—such as better sleep quality and increased exercise
tolerance—around the 3rd to 4th week of treatment.
People with sensitive skin may experience skin irritation or
blisters, or feel fatigued and have muscle or joint discomfort
after the treatment. These issues typically resolve after the
first week.
