What Are the Benefits of Cardiac Resynchronisation Therapy (CRT)?

CRT therapy

Imagine being unable to climb a flight of stairs or even walk short distances without feeling completely out of breath. For many individuals living with heart failure, this is their daily reality. However, advances in medical technology, such as Cardiac Resynchronisation Therapy (CRT), are offering hope and transforming lives. CRT has been proven to improve heart function, enhance quality of life, and reduce hospitalisations for patients with heart failure. This blog delves into the benefits of CRT and how it can make a difference for those battling heart failure.

Why Is Cardiac Resynchronisation Therapy Important?

Cardiac Resynchronisation Therapy is a treatment devised to enhance the efficiency of the heart in performing pumping actions. In most heart failure patients, the lower chambers of the heart, ventricles, pump blood out of sequence, thus weakening the heart’s pumping action. CRT uses a special pacemaker to correct this phenomenon to allow the pumping action of the heart to contract in harmony.

The Impact of CRT

  • Research shows that CRT reduces hospitalisation and morbidity/mortality by 30-40% in individuals with heart failure.
  • It’s particularly effective in patients with conditions like left bundle branch block or a reduced ejection fraction, where the heart’s ability to pump blood is severely diminished.

CRT corrects the underlying electrical and mechanical dysfunction of the heart both in terms of managing symptoms and improving cardiac health.

Key Benefits of CRT

  • Improved Heart Function: CRT helps the heart pump more efficiently by restoring synchrony between the ventricles. This improved coordination allows the heart to deliver oxygen-rich blood to the rest of the body more effectively.
  • Enhanced Quality of Life: Patients who undergo CRT often report significant improvements in their daily activities. They experience:
    • Reduced shortness of breath.
    • Increased energy levels.
    • Greater ability to engage in physical activities they once avoided.
  • Reduced Risk of Heart Failure Progression: CRT slows down the progression of heart failure by reducing the strain on the heart. This leads to fewer complications and a longer, healthier life.
  • Fewer Hospital Visits: Often, heart failure indicates severe hospital admissions because patients’ symptoms are worsening. CRT may reduce the need for emergency care and hospital visits significantly, keeping in mind that this will improve not only the comfort of the patient but also reduce their financial burden.

Who Can Benefit from CRT?

CRT is not suitable for everyone with heart failure, but it can be life-changing for those who meet specific criteria. Individuals who may benefit include:

  • Those with moderate to severe heart failure symptoms.
  • Patients with left bundle branch block or similar conduction disorders.
  • Poor pumping ability is indicated by an ejection fraction of less than 35%.

Consultation with a cardiac specialist is critical before evaluating the person in detail. Medical history, current symptoms, and the results of diagnostic tests such as echocardiogram or ECG shall determine whether CRT is or isn’t appropriate.

Wrap Up

Cardiac Resynchronisation Therapy (CRT) is more than a treatment—it’s a lifeline for patients struggling with heart failure. By improving heart function, enhancing quality of life, and reducing hospital visits, CRT offers renewed hope to those facing this challenging condition.

If you or a loved one is living with heart failure, exploring advanced treatment options like CRT could be the key to better health and a brighter future.

Consult Dr Ashutosh Kumar for Premiere Cardiac Care

Do you have heart failure symptoms or are you searching for some advanced treatment methodologies? Book an appointment with Dr Ashutosh Kumar for personalised cardiac care and find out more about CRT and how it will change your heart’s life. Take the first step towards a healthier active lifestyle today!

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