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Treatment options for angina pectoris and the future role of enhanced external counterpulsation

David R Holmes1

  • 1Division of Cardiovascular Disease, Mayo Clinic Foundation, St Mary's Hospital, Rochester, Minnesota 55905, USA. dholmes@mayo.edu

Clinical Cardiology
|December 20, 2002
PubMed

Insights

Patients with coronary artery disease may find relief with enhanced external counterpulsation (EECP). Recent trial results suggest EECP is a viable option for managing persistent angina symptoms and improving quality of life.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Vascular Medicine
  • Medical Devices

Background:

  • Coronary artery disease (CAD) presents diverse treatment modalities.
  • Current treatments include medications and revascularization (CABG, angioplasty).
  • A significant patient subset experiences persistent angina, impacting quality of life.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the efficacy of enhanced external counterpulsation (EECP) in patients with refractory angina.
  • To determine the role of EECP within the established treatment hierarchy for CAD.

Main Methods:

  • Review of recent clinical trial data on EECP for angina management.
  • Analysis of EECP's effectiveness compared to existing therapies.

Main Results:

  • Published clinical trial results indicate potential benefits of EECP.
  • EECP may offer a valuable therapeutic option for specific patient groups.

Conclusions:

  • EECP warrants serious consideration as a treatment option for CAD patients with persistent symptoms.
  • The position of EECP in the treatment algorithm requires further evaluation based on new evidence.

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