New: NCI-funded clinical trial search
Mednet Logo

When would it be reasonable to consider enhanced external counter-pulsation therapy in patients with refractory angina despite maximally tolerated anti-anginal therapy?

4 Answers
Mednet MemberInvited Expert
Cardiology · Yale University School of Medicine
Answered on

I would exhaust all options for coronary revascularization first. 

Mednet Member
Cardiology · University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston
Answered on

First I would titrate anti-anginal medications including beta blockers, non-dihydropyridines (as needed/tolerated), nitrates and ranolazine.

If still refractory angina then EECP is FDA-approved for refractory angina (Class IIB).

Sharma et al., PMID 24510321

Mednet Member
Cardiology · NYU Langone - New York
Answered on

With the current capabilities of revascularization and optimization of meds, it is rare and far when we reach for EECP. That being said, I agree that it is a viable FDA-approved option when the standard of medical care and revascularization have been exhausted.

Mednet Member
Cardiology · Lehigh Valley Physician Group
Answered on

EECP remains an effective therapy for improving refractory angina symptom burden. Optimization of medical therapy remains the first line but can be limited by medication tolerance. Revascularization has improved, specifically the result of CTO PCI, and is also an effective intervention for refractory angina. The optimal care of the patient with refractory angina is a multi-modality approach that matches risk tolerance, anatomy, and medical tolerance to improve quality of life.