Comparison of patients undergoing enhanced external counterpulsation and spinal cord stimulation for refractory angina pectoris.

INTRODUCTION: As more patients survive coronary events, the prevalence of patients with refractory angina pectoris is increasing. The aim was to evaluate the effects of enhanced external counterpulsation (EECP) and spinal cord stimulation (SCS) and compare with optimal medically treated patients with refractory angina. METHODS: 153 patients with refractory angina were treated with either EECP, SCS, or were retained on their pharmacological treatment (control). Glyceryl trinitrate usage and Canadian Cardiovascular Society classification were registered at baseline, 6 and 12 months after therapy. RESULTS: Both EECP and SCS reduced the angina as compared with controls (P<0.001). Patients treated with EECP showed a more effective reduction as compared with SCS patients (P<0.05). Both treatments resulted in significantly decreased glyceryl trinitrate usage at 6 and 12 months follow-up (P