Volume 4,Issue 3
Application Effect of Enhanced External Counterpulsation in Patients with Chronic Heart Failure Comorbid with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Objective: To analyze the effects of enhanced external counterpulsation on cardiac function, blood glucose, and exercise tolerance in patients with chronic heart failure comorbid with type 2 diabetes mellitus, and to evaluate the application efficacy of this therapy in this population. Methods: From August 2025 to October 2026, patients with chronic heart failure and diabetes admitted to our hospital were enrolled and randomly divided into a control group (n = 75) and an observation group (n = 75) using a random number table method. The control group received standard medication and routine health education, while the observation group received additional external counterpulsation therapy, 30 minutes per session, twice daily, 6 hours per week, for a total of 6 weeks, accumulating one course of counterpulsation with a total duration of 36 hours. Results: In terms of cardiac function indicators, after one course of treatment and at 3 months, the observation group showed higher left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) and lower left ventricular end‑diastolic diameter (LVEDD) and N‑terminal pro‑B‑type natriuretic peptide (NT‑proBNP) compared with the control group (P < 0.05). For exercise tolerance, the 6‑minute walk test (6MWT) distance, anaerobic threshold (AT), and maximal metabolic equivalent (METS) were all higher in the observation group than in the control group (P < 0.05). Regarding glycemic control, fasting plasma glucose (FPG), 2‑hour postprandial glucose (2hPG), and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) were all lower in the observation group (P < 0.05). Conclusion: External counterpulsation therapy in patients with chronic heart failure and type 2 diabetes mellitus can improve cardiac function, enhance exercise tolerance, and ameliorate glycemic levels, representing a non‑pharmacological treatment modality worthy of broader clinical promotion.
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