CRT-D
Pronunciation: see-are-tee-dee
Also written as: CRT-D — cardiac resynchronization therapy with defibrillator
Cardiac resynchronization therapy with defibrillator capability, a device combining biventricular pacing with ICD functions.
Full Definition
Cardiac resynchronization therapy with defibrillator (CRT-D) is an advanced cardiac device that combines the benefits of biventricular pacing for heart failure management with implantable cardioverter-defibrillator capabilities for arrhythmia treatment. The device includes leads placed in the right atrium, right ventricle, and left ventricle (via the coronary sinus) to coordinate ventricular contraction and improve cardiac output in patients with heart failure and conduction abnormalities. CRT-D devices are indicated for patients with symptomatic heart failure, reduced ejection fraction, and wide QRS complexes who are also at risk for sudden cardiac death. These sophisticated devices require specialized programming and follow-up by electrophysiologists or heart failure specialists.
Usage
Usage note: Write with hyphens as CRT-D; distinguish from CRT-P (pacemaker only) in documentation.
In Context
- "The patient showed significant clinical improvement six months after CRT-D implantation." — Follow-up report
- "CRT-D optimization resulted in improved left ventricular ejection fraction and functional capacity." — Device clinic note