Treatments
Pacemaker / ICD / CRT
Advanced Cardiac Care: Pacemaker, ICD, and CRT with Dr. Srinivasa Prasad BV
A pacemaker is a small, battery-operated device implanted under the skin, usually near the collarbone, to help regulate abnormal heart rhythms. It sends electrical impulses to the heart to ensure it beats at a normal rate and rhythm.
An ICD (Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator) is a device similar to a pacemaker but with additional capabilities to treat life-threatening arrhythmias. It monitors the heart’s rhythm and delivers shocks to restore a normal rhythm if it detects dangerously fast or chaotic heartbeats.
CRT (Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy) is a treatment for heart failure that uses a specialized pacemaker (CRT device) to improve the timing of the heart’s contractions. This therapy helps the heart pump more efficiently by synchronizing the contractions of the left and right ventricles.
Procedure Overview
Pacemaker
- The pacemaker is connected to the heart via leads (wires) inserted through a vein.
- It continuously monitors the heart's rhythm and activates when it detects a slow heartbeat.
- The device is programmed to suit the individual needs of the patient.
ICD
- The ICD is implanted under the skin, usually near the collarbone, and connected to the heart via leads.
- It continuously monitors the heart for abnormal rhythms.
- When a serious arrhythmia is detected, the ICD delivers an electric shock to restore normal rhythm.
CRT
- The CRT device is implanted under the skin and connected to the heart via three leads.
- It sends electrical impulses to both ventricles to coordinate their contractions.
- CRT can be combined with an ICD (CRT-D) for patients at risk of sudden cardiac arrest.
Advantages
Pacemakers offer several benefits for patients with bradycardia (slow heart rate) or other arrhythmias:
Regulates Heartbeat
Maintains a consistent heart rate, preventing symptoms like dizziness, fatigue, and fainting.
Improves Quality of Life
Alleviates symptoms of arrhythmias, allowing patients to engage in daily activities with more energy and confidence.
Long-Term Solution
Pacemakers can function effectively for many years, with regular monitoring and occasional adjustments.
ICDs provide crucial benefits for patients at risk of sudden cardiac arrest:
Life-Saving Intervention
Can prevent sudden cardiac death by correcting dangerous arrhythmias instantly.
Continuous Monitoring
Provides ongoing surveillance of the heart's rhythm, offering peace of mind to patients and their families.
Improves Survival Rates
Significantly reduces the risk of death in patients with a history of life-threatening arrhythmias.
CRT offers significant benefits for patients with heart failure and ventricular dyssynchrony:
Improves Heart Function
Enhances the efficiency of the heart's pumping action, leading to better blood flow.
Reduces Symptoms
Alleviates symptoms of heart failure such as shortness of breath, fatigue, and swelling.
Enhances Quality of Life
Helps patients perform daily activities with less discomfort and more energy.
Who Can Benefit from These Devices?
Pacemakers, ICDs, and CRT devices are suitable for patients with:
- Bradycardia or slow heart rhythms
- Ventricular tachycardia or fibrillation
- Heart failure with reduced ejection fraction
- Symptoms of heart failure and ventricular dyssynchrony
