Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy (CRTD): Pre-Op & Post-Op Care
Preparation for Resynchronization therapy
Your doctor will request imaging tests, such as transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) or heart MRI. Prior to your procedure, please make sure you’ve had a shower, bath, or wash before arriving at the hospital or ward. This lowers the chance of illness and ensures that your skin is clean.
Before CRT-D procedure
The CRTD procedure’s advantages and disadvantages will be completely explained to the patient or patient’s representative Next, in order to proceed with the procedure, the patient will be required to sign a consent form. Prior to the cardiac crt therapy, following steps will be performed:
- If the patient’s innerwear doesn’t have any metal components (like sequins or poppers), then he or she might be able to wear them.
- In order to administer antibiotics (to lower the risk of infection), painkillers, and sedation during the cardiac crt therapy, a tiny plastic tube known as a cannula will be placed in your arm prior to the procedure.
During Resynchronization
The doctor will insert the three wires into your thigh or upper body veins and then thread them to your heart via your veins. Then a cut is made in your abdomen or beneath your collarbone to put on the CRT defibrillator, which verifies that your CRT device is operational after connecting the wires.
After the procedure
The patient might have to stay in the hospital for a few hours or overnight following the procedure. To ensure that leads remain in place following cardiac crt therapy, patients must keep their left arm motionless for roughly 12 hours. The physician may perform an electrocardiogram (EKG) to evaluate the heart rhythm or an X-ray to inspect the leads.
Cardiac Resynchronization Recovery Time
Generally, the recovery period for the cardiac crt therapy procedure will be varied based on the patient’s overall health condition, comorbidities, and individual healing rate. Post to the crtd surgery, the patient is needed to stay in the hospital for 24-48 hours, and also suggested to avoid the strenuous activities for 6-8 weeks until the doctor clears.
Post-operative care
Regular follow-ups should be maintained after the procedure, as the pacemaker stays in the body for life. Incisions should be kept neat and clean for a few days initially. A healthy diet and prescribed medications should be taken accordingly. Consult the doctor immediately if any abnormalities or signs of infection are seen.