CAD is a chronic inflammatory disease that history and / or natural course are not altered by invasive coronary revascularization with angioplasty (PCI) or coronary artery bypass surgery (CABG). Both are aimed at relieving symptoms of the patient but not to cure CAD or even prevent a heart attack.
During EECP, when the blood flow to your heart, you naturally avoid significant arteries with plaques and enter blood vessels healthy, not sick to go around blockages. Over time, these new pathways are strengthened and become Durable routes for blood to reach the heart beyond the blockage. This is why EECP is often called the “bypass natural.”
COMPARISON OF TREATMENT OPTIONS
Angioplasty with stenting (PCI)
- The (“guilty”) the most serious injury is treated, while others are left with stenosis.
- May require additional PCI or coronary bypass surgery.
- Invasive. Performed in cardiac catheterization lab. Surgeon-dependent.
- Drugs (inhibitors of platelet aggregation, in addition to aspirin) are advised.
- High cost and resources required.
EECP
- All lesions (mild to severe) and the areas involving infarction receive therapy.
- Sustained benefits in the short- and long-term.
- Noninvasive. External. Not dependent on surgeon.
- N/A
- Low cost and limited resources required.