Enhanced external counterpulsation (EECP) augmentation of amlodipine in elderly patients with isolated systolic hypertension (ISH) and wide pulse pressure: A comparative study

Background: Geriatric patients with isolated systolic hypertension (ISH) and wide pulse pressure (PP) were treated using enhanced external counter pulsation (EECP) combined with amlodipine versus amlodipine alone. Objectives: The efficacy of both treatment modalities was assessed based on hemodynamic parameters. Methods: Retrospectively included 132 elderly patients with ISH and wide PP in our hospital (Mar 2022-Jun 2024). After exclusion, 120 cases were analyzed and divided into the amlodipine group and the combined group. Primary indicators include endothelin-1 (ET-1), nitric oxide (NO), systolic blood pressure (SBP), PP, systemic vascular resistance (SVR), coronary flow reserve (CFR), flow-mediated vasodilatation (FMD); secondary measures include mean arterial pressure (MAP), wall shear stress (WSS) and adverse reaction incidence. Results: After 4 courses of treatment, patients in the combined group had significantly lower rates of ET-1, SBP, PP, MAP, SVR and the incidence of adverse reactions (all P<0.05); NO, FMD, WSS and CFR were higher (all P<0.05) than in the amlodipine group. Conclusion: EECP plus amlodipine has advantages over amlodipine monotherapy in treating elderly patients with ISH and wide PP, which provides a scientific basis for optimizing clinical treatment.