What is Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy (CRT)?
Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy involves implanting a permanent resynchronization device called a biventricular pacemaker into the patient’s heart. This device is placed in the ventricles of the patient’s heart and sends electrical signals, making them contract in sync in a better and more organized way to cope with insufficient blood loss.
This surgery is performed for patients with moderate to severe heart failure, left bundle branch block symptoms, weak or enlarged heart, and delayed electrical signals due to natural causes. It is sometimes performed with or without a device called an implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD).
There are two types of CRT surgery, namely cardiac resynchronization therapy with a pacemaker (CRT-P) and cardiac resynchronization therapy with a defibrillator (CRT-D).
| Procedure Name | CRT-P |
|---|---|
| Type of Surgery | Minor Surgery |
| Type of Anaesthesia | Local Anaesthesia |
| Procedure Duration | 2-5 Hours |
| Recovery Duration | 1-3 Weeks |
CRT-P: Pre-Op & Post-Op Care
Pre-Surgical Preparation: The surgeon may perform a few imaging tests a few days before the surgery, such as a heart MRI or a transthoracic echocardiogram. Later, local anaesthesia is administered.
Procedure: The surgeon inserts an IV into the patient’s arm to administer antibiotics, fluids, and painkillers, and a small incision is made on the area where the device is being implanted. The three wires (leads) connected to the CRT device on one end are then inserted and guided with a camera into the vein near the collarbone and the heart, followed by the implantation of the CRT device under the skin. The incision is then stitched.
Post-Surgical & Recovery Phase: Overnight stay at the hospital. The surgeon may advise you to keep your left arm straight and still for 12 hours to allow the leads to remain in place. Strictly follow the device management instructions and the wound care guide given by the surgeon. Attend the follow-up appointments where the surgeon might take an X-ray to inspect your heart leads and rhythm.
Benefits of CRT-P at Yashoda Hospitals
- Improved quality of living
- Better blood supply
- Treats heart failure symptoms
- Improves heart pumping efficiency and overall heart functions
- Promotes higher survival rates
- Enables more physical activity without fatigue
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