Enhanced external counterpulsation improves peripheral resistance artery blood flow in patients with coronary artery disease

Appl Physiol Nutr Metab. 2014 Mar;39(3):405-8. doi: 10.1139/apnm-2013-0309. Epub 2013 Oct 11.

Abstract

Enhanced external counterpulsation (EECP) increases coronary artery perfusion and improves endothelium-dependent vasodilation in peripheral muscular conduit arteries. It is unknown whether vasodilatory capacity is improved in the peripheral resistance vasculature. Here we provide novel evidence from the first randomized, sham-controlled study that EECP increases peak limb blood flow and improves endothelium-dependent vasodilation in both calf and forearm resistance arteries in patients with coronary artery disease.

Publication types

  • Randomized Controlled Trial
  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • Arteries / physiopathology*
  • Coronary Artery Disease / physiopathology*
  • Coronary Artery Disease / therapy*
  • Counterpulsation*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Prospective Studies
  • Regional Blood Flow*
  • Vascular Resistance*
  • Vasodilation