CRT-D Implant (Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy)

CRT-D implant is beneficial for people with an acute heart failure. The acronym CRT-D stands for Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy Defibrillator.

Cardiac resynchronization therapy devices monitor irregular heartbeats and help your heart to beat more efficiently. CRT devices are of 2 types – CRT-P (cardiac resynchronization therapy pacemaker) or dual chamber pacemaker and the other type is CRT-D, which is an inbuilt implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD).

How Does CRT-D Function?

The functionality of CRT-D is very similar to that of a cardiac pacemaker or an implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD). However, it delivers small electrical shocks to the left and right ventricles and helps them contracting at the same time. CRT-D has 3 leads to deliver impulses to the heart, rather than one or two as in the other devices.

Whereas, a cardiac pacemaker continuously monitors the heart rhythm, thereby preventing the heart to beat dangerously at a low pace and implantable cardioverter defibrillator is capable to send different levels of energy electrical shocks from low to high depending on the heartbeat rate.

Who will Benefit from a CRT-D Implant?

Heart failure patients are highly benefitted from a CRT-D implant giving a complete revival for a risked life.

In a healthy person, both ventricles of the heart (lower two chambers) contract and expand exactly at the same time. In heart failure, the ventricles might not pump/beat in unison and the required level of blood is not supplied to other organs efficiently. In this case, the Cardiac resynchronization device enhances the heart’s effectiveness and increases the blood flow.

CRT-D Implant (Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy) – FAQs

Q. How will This Device Affect my Daily Life?

A: The device definitely revives one’s life and improves its quality. One can engage in all activities in the normal manner with few limitations.

Q.What are the Daily Restrictions Advised in this CRT-D Implant Procedure?

A: The doctor usually will advise the patient to keep away from high powered magnetic and electronic devices.

Q.What are the Mostly Used/Home Appliances I should Keep Away?

A: Avoid keeping your mobile phone or music players closer to heart. Do not get overly exposed to microwave ovens, heating pads, electric blankets, etc.

Q.Can I get an MRI Scan With the CRT Device Fixed to Heart?

A: Yes, you can, however, you need to inform your doctor about the device fixed in.

Q.Can I Travel with the CRT Device Fixed to Heart?

A: Yes, you can. The patient is given a Medical Device ID card after the surgery by the hospital. This card is handy when your device alerts the metal detectors/alarms and the security personnel.

Q.How Long Does the Surgery Take and for How Many Days Should I Stay in the Hospital?

A: The implanting surgery usually takes about 2 - 4 hours and you may have to stay in close monitoring for about 2-3 days, depending on your health condition.

Q.What is the Life of CRT Device Battery?

A: The life of CRT device battery depends on the settings/programs that have been made to the device and how much therapy you receive. Your doctor may tune a feature in the battery to beep once it is closer to getting weak.