Q: Enhanced external counterpulsation (EECP) is performed during which cycle of the heart? (Select one)

A) Diastole
B) systole


Answer: A 

EECP relies on the concept of diastolic augmentation i.e. retrograde aortic blood flow during the diastole. It is done by applying cuffs, wrapped around the patient’s legs and providing sequential pressure at about 300 mm Hg from calf  to the lower and upper thighs. It may be used as an adjuvant or  salvage or rescue therapy in angina or congestive heart failure.


Reference:

Feldman AM, Silver MA, Francis GS, et al. Enhanced external counterpulsation improves exercise tolerance in patients with chronic heart failure. J Am Coll Cardiol 2006; 48:1198.