Combined Effects of Nicorandil and Enhanced External Counterpulsation on Coronary Microcirculation and Exercise Capacity in Patients With Coronary Slow Flow Phenomenon: A Randomized, Controlled, 3-Arm Trial.
Clin TherJul 1, 2026 (epub)
Clinical ResearchCardiology
Na Zhang, Maituxun Maitudi, Wuhong Lu
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In 30 seconds
This randomized controlled trial evaluated the combined effects of Nicorandil and enhanced external counterpulsation (EECP) on coronary microcirculation and exercise capacity in 309 patients with coronary slow flow phenomenon (CSFP). The combination therapy significantly improved coronary hemodynamics, with a corrected TIMI frame count of 30.4 ± 3.5 compared to 38.2 ± 3.8 and 37.5 ± 4.0 for monotherapies (P < 0.001).
Key findings
- The combined therapy group had a corrected TIMI frame count of 30.4 ± 3.5, significantly lower than monotherapy groups.
- IMR was significantly lower in the combined therapy group at 21.2 ± 2.8 compared to 28.4 ± 3.2 and 27.6 ± 3.5.
- Seattle Angina Questionnaire scores were highest in the combined therapy group at 87.5 ± 8.8.
- The rate of re-hospitalization due to recurrent angina was lower in the combined therapy group at 5.8%.
Why it matters
Improving coronary microvascular function and exercise capacity in patients with CSFP can enhance quality of life and reduce the burden of recurrent angina. Understanding the efficacy of combination therapies is crucial for optimizing treatment strategies.