Using enhanced external counterpulsation to help stroke patients recover

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This clinical trial aims to evaluate the effectiveness of combining enhanced external counterpulsation (EECP) with standard post-acute care (PAC) rehabilitation for patients who have recently experienced a stroke. Researchers will assess the feasibility of this combination and its impact on improving functional outcomes compared to standard PAC alone. The study focuses on patients within one month of a cerebrovascular accident who have stable medical conditions and moderate to moderately severe functional impairments. The goal is to determine if EECP can enhance recovery in post-stroke patients.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

* Patients with acute cerebrovascular disease, within 1 month after acute attack.
* Stable medical condition: (1). Neurological condition: The neurological condition has not deteriorated for more than 72 hours. (2). Vital signs including blood pressure, heartbeat, and body temperature are stable or controllable for more than 72 hours. (3). No complications such as infection, blood abnormalities, gastrointestinal bleeding, or stable or controllable after treatment.
* Those whose functional status is moderate to moderately severe functional impairment (MRS 3-4) and who are judged by the medical team to have active rehabilitation potential: (1). Have basic cognition, learning ability and willingness. (2) Have sufficient physical strength: able to maintain a sitting position on a wheelchair or bed edge for at least one hour with support. (3). Be able to actively participate in rehabilitation treatment plans.
* Aged over 20 years old

Exclusion Criteria:

* Patients with atrial fibrillation/arrhythmia.
* Within 2 weeks after cardiac catheterization or arterial puncture at the femoral artery puncture site.
* Decompensated heart failure (NYHA class 3 or 4).
* Left ventricular ejection fraction (EF) \< 30%.
* Moderate or severe aortic regurgitation.
* Persistent and uncontrolled hypertension (blood pressure persistently \>160/100 mmHg).
* Bleeding tendency.
* Active phlebitis/venous disease of the lower extremities.
* Severe vascular occlusive disease of the lower extremities.
* The presence of documented aortic aneurysm/dissection requiring surgical repair.
* Pregnancy.

Where it's running

• China Medical University Hospital Taichung East District Branch
  Taichung, Taiwan Recruiting

Study contacts

• Study coordinator: Li-Wei Chou, PhD
• Email: chouliwe@gmail.com
• Phone: 886+975681612

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.