ECP

FDA approved in 1994, External Counter Pulsation (ECP) is a natural method to stimulate coronary artery bypass. By using a system of blood pressure cuffs on the lower extremities and inflating/deflating in a coordinated protocol, existing arteries are enlarged and new vessels are grown (angiogenesis). Patients receive a series of prescribed treatments over approximately 6 weeks. Treatments typically last about 1 hour and patients find them to be very relaxing. ECP should be considered a systemic treatment and therefore its effects are not limited to the heart.