What is EDPC?
EDPC (End Diastolic Pneumatic Compression) is the medical term for the delivery of external compressions to the arteries during the relaxation of the heart. EDPC is a non-surgical, cost effective treatment and ultimate cure for the most common ailments associated with peripheral vascular disease specific to the leg and foot. EDPC therapy is the only viable alternative for many people who are being considered for leg and foot amputation.

How does this treatment work?
The EDPC “boot” acts as a cardiac assist mechanism to force oxygenated blood into the leg and foot to promote healing. Overall, EDPC therapy: Increases blood supply and oxygen delivery to affected tissues Improves functions of the cells which line the inner wall of the arteries Reduces healing time Opens constricted arteries Restores sensation in damaged nerves Dissolves blood clots Provides relief of pain associated with peripheral vascular disease Strengthens the body’s healing mechanism.

Does EDPC have a proven track record?
Although External Pneumatic Compression Therapy has been in use for over 150 years, Dr. Richard Dillon invented the first viable EDPC device over 20 years ago at Bryn Mawr Hospital in Philadelphia. With improvements, upgrades and years of documentation, the EDPC device of today remains the only End Diastolic Cardiac device approved by the FDA. Published clinical studies on EDPC show: Thousands of successful results A 93% success rate for those patients admitted into an EDPC program. Patients experience a drastic improvement or elimination of complications due to peripheral vascular disease or other circulatory problems. Most patients have major improvements in stamina, exercise tolerance, and overall quality of life. EDPC therapy should be given serious consideration as a true alternative to amputation. For a list of sources for additional technical and medical information regarding EDPC, please click here.

Is EDPC therapy safe? Are there any harmful side effects?
EDPC therapy is absolutely safe. There are no known harmful side effects at this time.

Are the EDPC treatments painful?
The EDPC therapy is absolutely painless. Some patients have described the treatments as “relaxing” and “invigorating”, opting to sleep or catch up on their reading.

How much does it cost and will my insurance pay for it?
Most insurance companies, including Medicare, cover the cost of the EDPC treatments. Some insurance companies require pre-certification and /or additional documentation, which will be provided.

Is there hospital stay involved?
In less advanced cases, a hospital stay is not necessary, and EDPC therapy is on an out-patient basis. In more severe cases, the patient may need to be admitted to the hospital for 3 to 4 days for evaluation. In such instances, treatment begins in the hospital and then continues on an out-patient basis.

How long is the treatment? How many treatments will I need? Each treatment lasts 45 minutes. Initially, we prescribe 5 to 6 treatments a week. The sessions are reduced to 2 to 3 times a week upon improvement and continue until the wound is healed.

How long will it take for my wound to heal?
The length of EDPC therapy will depend on many factors such as: advancement of your condition, size of the wound, and the severity, duration and type of infection. Also, complications such as the involvement of bone and other tissues in the infection will likely prolong the therapy. Some patients heal in 3 to 4 weeks while others may need treatment for several months.

How long do the results of EDPC therapy last?
The beneficial effects of EDPC therapy will continue far beyond the treatment time.

Will this treatment work for me?
Definitely, the same as it has worked for thousands of others that qualified for EDPC treatment. The EDPC therapy has been proven effective in over 93% of patients accepted for treatment. The severity, duration and type of infection, as well as underlying medical conditions, are all factors in determining acceptance into the program. Therefore, a physician evaluation is necessary. Call 610.527.6300 to set the date and time of your private evaluation.