External Counterpulsation (ECP) is a new non-invasive and less expensive technique for improving the symptoms of angina.

ECP therapy stimulates the growth of new blood vessels to help the heart pump blood through blocked arteries. During this therapy, your extremities (calves, thighs and buttocks) are compressed with cuffs (like the ones used to take your blood pressure). The pressure is released when the heart is ready to pump out blood, which takes some of the strain off the heart and allows easier circulation.

For more information on Sutter Heart & Vascular Institute's ECP therapy procedure, visit the Cardiomedics Web site at www.cardiomedics.com.