Enhanced external counterpulsation (EECP) treatment is an outpatient therapy that helps to eliminate or relieve attacks of angina. Angina (chest pain) is caused when the heart does not receive enough oxygen.

EECP is a non-invasive, non-surgical treatment that may serve as an alternative to bypass surgery or angioplasty for some patients.

EECP may stimulate the opening or formation of new, natural pathways around narrowed or blocked arteries, thereby improving circulation to the heart muscle.

Oftentimes EECP is performed on patients in 35 one-hour sessions, and patients are able to go home after each session.

Specially trained staff at the CentraCare Heart & Vascular Center can provide EECP treatment for four to five patients per day.