What Is a Cardiac Resynchronisation Therapy Device?

CRT Device

If your heart is not beating efficiently and you meet the eligibility criteria, you may be eligible for a cardiac resynchronisation therapy (CRT) heart device.

A CRT device sends small, undetectable electrical impulses to both lower chambers of the heart to help them beat together in a more synchronized pattern. This improves the heart's ability to pump blood and oxygen to the body.

The heart device itself is actually a tiny computer, plus a battery, contained in a small titanium metal case that is about the size of a pocket watch. It weighs about 85 grams.

In addition to the heart device, insulated wires called leads are implanted for two purposes: to carry information signals from your heart to the heart device, and to carry electrical impulses to your heart.

The third part of your implantable device system is a programmer, an external computer located in your doctor's office or clinic that is used to program the heart device and retrieve information from your heart device that will assist your doctor.

There are two types of implantable heart failure devices: a CRT pacemaker and a combination CRT pacemaker with defibrillation. Both of these devices help to coordinate the heart's pumping action and improve blood flow. They can also speed up a heart that is beating too slowly.

The CRT pacemaker with defibrillation (CRT-D) also offers the ability to detect and manage dangerously fast heart rhythms, which some individuals with a damaged heart muscle may be at risk for developing. Your doctor will determine which CRT device is appropriate for your medical condition.

Next: Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions – Cardiac Resynchronisation Therapy Devices

If your doctor has advised you that cardiac resynchronisation therapy may be the best course of action for your poorly pumping heart (heart failure), you may have a variety of questions and concerns.

Here are some common topics of interest to individuals considering an implantable cardiac resynchronisation therapy device:

• What should I expect during cardiac resynchronisation therapy (CRT) surgery?
• What happens when I receive a shock?
• Will the device affect my appearance?
• Will I have to change my lifestyle?

What should I expect during cardiac resynchronisation therapy (CRT) surgery?

Typically, the procedure to implant a heart device is done under local anaesthesia. It does not require open-heart surgery and many people go home within 24 hours. Your doctor will provide more detailed information, but most individuals can expect to gradually return to their everyday activities shortly after the procedure.

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What happens when I receive a shock?

Experiencing a shock from a CRT device that contains an implantable defibrillator can be a concern for many individuals. An implantable defibrillator shock will most likely take you by surprise.

You may feel fine afterward, or you may feel dizzy, sick, or disoriented after the shock occurs. It's important to talk to your doctor and have a plan in place so that you know exactly what to do when you experience a shock. Your doctor may want you to phone in, or schedule an appointment after you’ve had a shock.

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Will the device affect my appearance?

Sometimes individuals wonder if there will be a noticeable bulge where the heart device was implanted. In general, you may notice a slight bump under your skin where your device is located.

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Will I have to change my lifestyle?

An implantable heart device allows many individuals to participate in the activities they enjoy. Your doctor will have more information on activities you may need to avoid.

If your CRT device contains an implantable defibrillator, this might include activities where a few seconds of unconsciousness could be dangerous to yourself or others. However, most people resume their normal daily activities after full recovery from surgery.

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Next: Getting a CRT Device