Pneumatic pumps and complex electronic processors that precisely monitor heartbeats and changing respiratory rates proved to be the answer. In 1995, the FDA cleared EECP for therapeutic use. The initial course of outpatient treatment takes an hour a day, five days a week, for 4-7 weeks. Patients with very extensive damage may require treatment over an extended period. Although the procedure is somewhat forceful due to the nearly instantaneous increase and decrease of pressure, it's painless.
Patients usually bring a book to read or listen to portable CD players during their treatments.
Two thousand participate in a registry that details their histories and progress. In China, where the EECP machines are manufactured, as many as 10,000 units are in use. In addition to treating angina, the EECP apparatus can be used for some neurological and retinal diseases where increased blood and oxygen flow may be of value. EECP may also have applications in sports, particularly in events where additional oxygen can increase performance. Results have been extremely encouraging.