Normal heart function depends on maintaining a balance between oxygen supply and demand. Oxygen consumption by the cardiac muscle is determined by how fast your heart is beating and how well it pumps. The amount of oxygen available is determined by blood flow. Approximately 80 percent of the blood flow to the cardiac muscle tissue occurs when the heart is resting.
Clinical studies indicate that IECP® treatment may create a "natural" bypass of blocked arteries. IECP® treatment encourages blood vessels to open or form small channels that become extra branches. These channels, or collaterals, may eventually become permanent pathways to the heart muscle that was previously deprived of blood flow and adequate oxygen.