EECP

A non-invasive 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 Fortis 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.