The Role of Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy (CRT) in Heart Failure Management

October 22, 2024 | 4 minutes read time

Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy (CRT) has become a critical tool in managing heart failure, especially in patients who don’t respond adequately to medications and have specific defect called LBBB in ECG. CRT is a specialized treatment that aims to enhance the coordination of heart contractions, particularly for individuals suffering from congestive heart failure due to Low Ejection Fraction (EF) and arrhythmias. This treatment involves implanting a CRT device, typically a biventricular pacemaker, that sends electrical impulses to both lower chambers of the heart (ventricles) to help them contract more synchronously.

Heart failure occurs when the heart is unable to pump enough blood to meet the body's needs, leading to symptoms such as shortness of breath, fatigue, and swelling in the legs and abdomen. Over time, the condition can cause the heart muscle to weaken and enlarge, further disrupting the electrical signaling that directs efficient pumping. This lack of coordination, or dyssynchrony, in heart contractions is where CRT proves especially beneficial. In Delhi, where advanced cardiac treatments like CRT are increasingly accessible, patients have new hope for symptom relief and improved quality of life.

CRT can be particularly effective for patients who experience a significant electrical delay in their ventricles, often identified as a left bundle branch block. In these cases, the CRT device's electrical impulses help synchronize contractions, reducing strain on the heart and improving blood flow throughout the body. Studies show that CRT can alleviate CHF symptoms in about two-thirds of patients who undergo this procedure, and it has also been associated with better survival rates.

CRT devices come in two main types: pacemakers and combined pacemaker-defibrillators (CRT-D). The latter is designed for patients at a higher risk of sudden cardiac arrest due to dangerously fast heart rhythms. This combination device can deliver a life-saving shock if it detects an abnormal, potentially fatal rhythm, providing both pacing and protection against sudden cardiac death.

For patients in Delhi seeking heart failure treatment, CRT implantation requires a skilled cardiologist, as the procedure involves positioning leads within the heart, sometimes through complex veins. Dr. Vanita Arora and other specialists in the region emphasize that while CRT implantation can be complex, it is a low-risk procedure with significant benefits when performed correctly.

The ideal candidates for CRT are those with moderate to severe heart failure who have not found sufficient relief through medications and lifestyle adjustments. Post-implantation, patients typically experience fewer symptoms, improved exercise tolerance, and a higher quality of life. Regular follow-up care is essential to monitor the device's performance and battery, which typically lasts around 5-7 years.

CRT has transformed heart failure management by addressing the electrical imbalances that aggravate the condition. With expert care and the latest CRT devices available in Delhi, patients have an effective pathway to manage symptoms and enhance cardiac function, offering a longer and better quality of life.

In conclusion, Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy (CRT) is a powerful intervention for managing heart failure symptoms and enhancing patients' quality of life, particularly in advanced cases. With the increasing availability of CRT expertise and devices in Delhi, individuals suffering from heart failure now have access to a tailored approach that not only synchronizes heart function but also offers a viable option for long-term improvement. Under the guidance of experienced specialists, CRT can be a life-changing treatment, helping patients regain both energy and hope for a healthier future.