Enhanced external counterpulsation as an adjunct to revascularization in unstable angina.

ABSTRACT

Enhanced external counterpulsation (EECP) is an effective noninvasive treatment for chronic stable angina. Despite intensive risk factor modification, a patient required two surgical coronary revascularizations and seven multivessel angioplasties over a 26-month period, demonstrating recurrent unstable angina and persistent thallium perfusion defects despite revascularization. Post EECP, angina was relieved, thallium defects were resolved and the patient has remained asymptomatic for 36 months.