Traditionally, patients with severe heart disease undergo bypass surgery to improve their condition. But for some, this more traditional option just doesn’t work.

Mary Cavanah faced that dilemma, so she began an innovative cardiac therapy called enhanced external counter pulsation – or EECP. Specialists with University of Iowa Heart Care recommended the seven-week program.

" Many patients are referred from all over the state to us. We like to be able to have the most up-to-date, state-of-the-art treatment, and this is one option that many smaller hospitals aren’t able to provide for their patients, and it actually is helping people," says Catherine Pesek-Bird, M.D., UI Heart Care specialist.

EECP appears to stimulate the opening of new pathways around narrowed or blocked arteries. Special cuffs are applied to the leg and precisely timed to the heart beat. This allows for increased blood flow to the heart at the same time it is relaxing. The results mean new hope for Mary and her family.

" I’m able to walk a little bit farther, and I’m able to do a few more steps without having to stop. So I feel like I have benefited from the treatment, " says Mary.

Each EECP treatment session takes about one hour. Patients receive treatments five days a week for seven weeks.

Recent studies in Europe and the U.S. also show EECP has long-term benefits for patients.

For more information:

UI Heart Care