Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy-Biventricular Pacemaker (CRT)

If you have heart failure and an irregular heart rhythm, your doctor may recommend cardiac resynchronization therapy, or CRT. CRT device is a small battery-powered computer in a metal case that’s put under the skin near your collarbone. It’s attached to your heart and sends electrical pulses to both sides of your heart to help them beat together in a regular pattern. This can improve your heart’s ability to pump blood and oxygen to your body.

There are two types of CRT devices, and your doctor may recommend a device depending on your condition. The procedure to put in a CRT device takes about one to two hours. Most people are up and walking around later the same day and go back to their regular activities within two to four weeks.

As with any medical procedure, there are some risks associated with getting a CRT device, which your doctor will go over with you. After the procedure, you may have some pain and bruising where the device was put in, but that usually goes away in a few days. Not every patient with heart failure needs a CRT device. Together, you and your care team will decide if CRT therapy is a good option for you.