Effect of Enhanced External Counterpulsation (EECP) on Subclinical Atherosclerosis

Study of the Effect of EECP on Subclinical Atherosclerosis

Shear stress maybe the most crucial local factor affecting atherogenesis. The present study investigated the effect of exposure to increased shear stress promoted by Enhanced External Counterpulsation (EECP) on the progression of subclinical atherosclerosis and the underlying inflammation- related molecular mechanisms

Hypercholesterolemic subjects with subclinical atherosclerosis will be randomized into two groups: standard treatment group and standard treatment plus EECP intervention group. The results of ultrasound examination and markers of inflammations will be compared.

Inclusion Criteria:

• 20- 70 years old subjects whose LDL higher than 160mg/dl and carotid intima-media thickness higher than 75 percent of his age.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Presence of history of coronary heart disease, stroke or atherosclerotic peripheral disease. Presence of impaired renal function, connective disease, or infectious disease.