ECP Therapy - Enjoy Life Again
External Counterpulsation Therapy (ECP) is an exciting option for the treatment of heart disease, specifically Coronary Artery Disease. Many people who suffer from heart disease are unable to supply enough oxygen-rich blood to nourish the heart muscle (ischemia). The symptom commonly associated is angina (angina pectoris), or chest pain. Currently, many cardiologists prescribe ECP therapy for the treatment of angina. ECP has helped people throughout the world enjoy life again. It has given new hope to many of those suffering from heart disease. After completion of ECP therapy, many people return to an active and fulfilling lifestyle.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is ECP?
ECP is a non-invasive therapy designed to improve circulation and
blood flow to the heart. ECP therapy is prescribed for the treatment
of Coronary Artery Disease. ECP is safe, easy, and effective. The
therapy consists of 35 daily treatments lasting for one hour per day.
ECP is administered on an outpatient basis and requires no hospitalization.
Best of all, ECP is an exciting option for those people who have had, or
are not good candidates for bypass surgery or angioplasty. If medication
does not provide adequate relief from angina, ECP could be a positive
alternative to invasive procedures.
What does ECP do?
ECP helps to alleviate symptoms of angina by increasing blood flow to
the coronary arteries and heart muscle. This therapy does not remove
blockages or stop the disease process. However, ECP helps revascularize
the heart muscle through the development of collateral vessels. Collateral
vessels help to increase blood supply to the heart muscle.
Clinical Studies have shown:
- ECP provides relief from Angina (chest pain)
- ECP may decrease need or use of medication
- ECP helps to improve exercise tolerance and daily activities
- ECP improves overall quality of life
- ECP provides results that can last for years
How does ECP work?
During ECP therapy, pressure cuffs are wrapped firmly around the calves,
thighs, and buttocks. The cuffs inflate and deflate between each heart
beat. When inflated, the cuffs squeeze blood toward the heart increasing
coronary perfusion pressure, coronary blood flow and oxygen supply. This
process helps oxygenated blood reach the heart muscle, further reducing
or eliminating angina pain.
Is ECP Painful?
No. ECP is a non-invasive procedure that does not typically cause pain.
However, some patients may experience minor bruising or skin irritation
as a side-effect of ECP treatment.
Do insurance companies pay for ECP?
Yes. Medicare will pay for ECP treatment when it is prescribed by a
cardiologist. Many private insurance companies are also paying for ECP treatment.
Is ECP an appropriate treatment option?
Consult with your cardiologist or referring physician to determine if ECP
is an appropriate procedure for you. ECP may be appropriate if you answer
"yes" to one or more of the following questions:
- Do you suffer daily from chest pain?
- Does your chest pain stop you from performing daily activities?
- Do you become short of breath with regular activity?
- Do you suffer from Congestive Heart Failure (CHF)?
- Are you anxious about the possibility of undergoing bypass surgery or angioplasty?
How can I find a local cardiologist who offers ECP therapy?
Physicians throughout the United States and Canada offer ECP therapy. Contact
your cardiologist or referring physician to find out where ECP is provided in
your area. For international ECP referrals, please call ACS corporate
headquarters for assistance.
Managing Heart Disease