Advanced
Technical
IVT
cardiac resynchronization therapy
Also written as: CRT — Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy
Device therapy using biventricular pacing to improve coordination of heart contractions in heart failure patients.
Full Definition
Cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) is a specialized pacing technique that uses a three-lead system to pace both the right ventricle and left ventricle simultaneously. This therapy is designed to restore coordinated ventricular contraction in patients with heart failure and ventricular dyssynchrony, typically manifested as left bundle branch block. CRT can be combined with defibrillator capability (CRT-D) or used as pacing only (CRT-P).
Usage
Usage note: Commonly abbreviated as CRT; specify CRT-D (with defibrillator) or CRT-P (pacing only) when relevant.
In Context
- "The patient is a candidate for cardiac resynchronization therapy given QRS duration of 150 ms and NYHA Class III symptoms." — Heart failure clinic note
- "Response to cardiac resynchronization therapy was assessed at 6-month follow-up." — Clinical trial report
Also known as
biventricular pacing
CRT
Don't confuse with
cardiac ablation therapy
implantable cardioverter defibrillator