Role of external counterpulsation in the treatment of ischemic stroke

Reduced blood flow is the principle pathophysiologic event in acute ischemic stroke. Hence, flow augmentation is the most important goal in stroke management. Improvement of cerebral blood flow can be accomplished by proximal arterial recanalization or by other systemic approaches. Diastolic counterpulsation is a non-invasive method to improve the perfusion of heart, kidneys and brain. This review summarizes the history, possible mechanism and the role of external counterpulsation in ischemic stroke