cardiac resynchronization therapy
A pacing therapy using biventricular stimulation to improve cardiac function in patients with heart failure and conduction delays.
Full Definition
Cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) is a specialized form of cardiac pacing that uses leads in both ventricles to restore coordinated contraction in patients with heart failure and ventricular conduction abnormalities. The therapy involves simultaneous or near-simultaneous pacing of the right ventricle and left ventricle (typically via the coronary sinus) to overcome electrical dyssynchrony caused by bundle branch blocks or other conduction delays. CRT can be delivered through pacemakers (CRT-P) or combined with defibrillator capability (CRT-D). The therapy has been shown to improve symptoms, exercise capacity, quality of life, and survival in appropriately selected heart failure patients with reduced ejection fraction and QRS prolongation.
Usage
Usage note: Abbreviate as CRT; distinguish CRT-P from CRT-D based on defibrillator capability.
In Context
- "Cardiac resynchronization therapy resulted in significant improvement in the patient's ejection fraction." — Follow-up cardiology note
- "CRT optimization was performed using echocardiographic guidance to maximize hemodynamic benefit." — Device clinic procedure note