Development, design and implementation of a heart rehabilitation system based on External Counter Pulsation (ECP)

Abstract

One of the most common diseases in the world is coronary arteries stenosis, which can be treated by non-invasive rehabilitation methods. In current paper, we discuss the development, design and implementation of a heart rehabilitation system based on a method named ECP (External Counter Pulsation). In this system, external counter pressure pulses are applied by inflating several cuffs that are wrapped around patient's leg. These pulses are applied on diastole phase of heart cycle. The proper timing of applying pulses is decided by recording ECG and detecting R peaks. Using this system, the patient's coronary blood flow will be improved and after some treatment sessions, it's shown that there will be a significant improvement in the performance of the coronary arteries. © 2010 IEEE.