Novel external counterpulsation system, compact counterpulsation, was effective to treat severe ischemic heart failure: a case report

Abstract

Compact counterpulsation (CP) is a novel external counterpulsation system. The preoperative clinical utility of compact CP therapy in patients has not been established. In the present report, we describe a case wherein compact CP therapy was successfully used to treat severe ischemic heart failure. A 70-year-old man was diagnosed with ischemic heart disease and mitral valve regurgitation at 61 years of age. Therefore, he underwent coronary artery bypass and mitral valve plasty. The patient's condition started to gradually deteriorate at 68 years of age, and he became progressively dependent on catecholamine support. Mitral valve regurgitation recurred, which caused worsening of heart function. Before a mitral valve replacement, the patient had been treated with compact CP therapy to improve heart function and general condition. The patient's clinical condition improved with compact CP therapy after only ten sessions; in addition, he could be weaned off catecholamine support. No adverse effects were observed, and therefore, he could complete the CP therapy as an outpatient. Mitral valve replacement was performed after a total of 44 sessions. The patient had an uneventful postoperative course and was discharged on the 18th postoperative day. Compact CP therapy was thus performed on our patient without any discomfort and appears to be an effective treatment for patients with severe ischemic heart failure.