Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy

A Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy (CRT) system is a treatment designed to help your heart beat more effectively, especially if you have heart failure. It involves a small device, known as a pulse generator, and thin, insulated wires called leads that deliver tiny electrical pulses to your heart.

In a healthy heart, the left and right ventricles (the lower chambers) pump together in a coordinated way. However, in some cases of heart failure, the ventricles don’t beat in sync, which can make the heart less efficient at pumping blood. A CRT device helps restore this coordination, allowing both ventricles to pump together more efficiently, much like a fist closing properly again.

There are two types of CRT devices:

1. Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy Pacemaker (CRT-P): This is a special kind of pacemaker, also known as a “biventricular pacemaker.” It sends electrical signals to both ventricles to help them beat in sync. This can improve your heart’s pumping ability, reduce symptoms of heart failure, and enhance your quality of life.

2. Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy Defibrillator (CRT-D): This device works similarly to a CRT-P but also includes a built-in implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD). The ICD can detect dangerous heart rhythms and deliver a shock to restore a normal rhythm, providing an extra level of protection against life-threatening arrhythmias.

If you’re considering a CRT device, your doctor will assess which type is most suitable for you based on your specific heart condition. The procedure to implant the device is minimally invasive, usually requiring a small incision near your collarbone. Recovery is typically quick, and many patients experience significant improvements in their heart function and overall well-being.

Choosing a CRT device can help your heart work more effectively, relieve symptoms of heart failure, and potentially prevent serious complications. Your healthcare team will guide you through the process, ensuring you understand the benefits and what to expect during and after the procedure.