Cardiac resynchronization therapy

Cardiac resynchronization therapy
Specialty	{{#statements:P1995}}
ICD-9-CM	00.51, 00.54
MeSH	D058409
eMedicine	1839506-devices

An implanted cardiac resynchronization device is a medical device used in cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT). It resynchronizes the contractions of the heart’s ventricles by sending tiny electrical impulses to the heart muscle, which can help the heart pump blood throughout the body more efficiently. CRT defibrillators (CRT-D) also incorporate the additional function of an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator, to quickly terminate an abnormally fast, life-threatening heart rhythm. CRT and CRT-D have become increasingly important therapeutic options for patients with moderate and severe heart failure.

Cardiac resynchronization therapy in heart failure

Cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) is an effective therapy in patients with heart failure and dyssynchrony identified as a prolonged QRS duration. Benefits include improved exercise tolerance, reduced remodeling (reduction in LV chamber size and measures of mitral regurgitation), reduced mortality, and need for hospitalization in patients in sinus rhythm.