What is angina?

Answer: Angina is a signal from your body telling you that your heart muscle is not receiving enough oxygenated blood. The heart requires an especially enriched supply of oxygen via the incoming blood flow in the coronary arteries. When the vessels that supply the heart with oxygenated blood become narrowed, the area of the heart that is not receiving the proper blood flow responds with a very painful signal called angina pectoris. Angina may feel like chest pain or pressure, shortness of breath, pain in the jaw, neck, arms, back, nausea or generalized fatigue. Each patient experiences angina differently.

How long does ECP take?

The standard course of treatment is one hour per day, five days per week, for seven weeks (a total of 35 one-hour sessions). Some patients have two treatments in one day in order to complete the program more quickly. Some patients extend the program beyond 35 treatments, depending on their particular medical situation and goals.

I have congestive heart failure (CHF ). Is that a problem with ECP?

No. In fact, in July 2002 the FDA approved ECP as a treatment for congestive heart failure (CHF). After completing a course of ECP treatment, patients with CHF typically have less swelling in their legs, less shortness of breath, less fatigue and often require less diuretic medication.

Is there an age limit for ECP?

Can ECP dislodge plaque and cause a stroke or heart attack?