Efficacy of enhanced external counterpulsation: our experience

Abstract

AimsEnhanced external counterpulsation therapy is a non-invasive, non-pharmacological outpatient treatment option for refractory angina pectoris. Our aim is to evaluate its efficacy in Nepalese refractory angina pectoris patients. Materials and methodsIt was single centre prospective study conducted from 2010 August to 2013 December. All thirty one (n=31) consecutive patients, referred for and received 35 hours of treatment were included in this study. The distance covered in six minute walk test before and after the treatment was recorded and compared. Patients were followed each with the questionnaires about their anginal symptoms before and after the treatment. ResultsIn our study 19(61.3%) were male and 12(38.7%) female. The mean age was 65.7±9.3 years. Most patients had multi vessel disease. Twelve patients had previous history of revascularization. In 6 minute walk test there was significant difference in mean distance covered before and after the treatment. Most patients experienced decrease in the angina symptom. They had decreased in severity and frequency of angina, resulting in decreased use of sublingual nitrates. ConclusionEECP can be safe and effective treatment option for patients with RAP.

Development of Non-Invasive Cardiology in Nepal

“…Enhanced External Counterpulsation (EECP) was introduced in our nation in the year 2010 in SGNHC and has shown promising results among patients with refractory angina. [34][35][36] There are some promising results in preventing CAD too. Fetal echocardiography, which was introduced in SGNHC in the year 2007, plays an important role in diagnosis of congenital heart disease and early intervention in its treatment modality.…”