Cardiac resynchronisation therapy (CRT)
A device to improve the effiency of your heart
If your heart fails to pump blood around your body efficiently, your consultant may recommend a CRT device
What is Cardiac Resynchronisation Therapy?
CRT has wires reaching both the right and left pumping chambers, enabling both to beat together. This is called resynchronisation.
Need to know
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What happens during CRT? icon plus
Having your CRT device implanted is a relatively straightforward procedure. It is usually carried out under local anaesthetic and sedation, meaning you'll be awake for the duration but very drowsy.
Your consultant is likely to place the device under the skin near your collarbone on the left hand side of your chest. It is then attached to three wires that are guided through a blood vessel and into both the right and left ventricles (chambers) of your heart. The procedure usually takes between one and two hours. You will usually stay in hospital overnight. -
How to prepare icon plus
Your consultant will tell you how best to prepare for your procedure. -
After your procedure icon plus
You may be able to return home on the same day as your procedure, but most people will need to spend one night in hospital to recover. Your consultant will let you know what to expect. You should rest at home for a few days after the procedure to allow time for the area to heal.
Your consultant will discuss this with you and let you know when you can get back to your usual routine, including work or exercise. They’ll also give you advice on any medication you may need to continue taking to manage your condition. At first you'll be able to feel the pacemaker beating in your chest. It may feel a little uncomfortable in certain positions.
Our cardiologists
Our locations
From complex cardiothoracic surgery to diagnostic testing and procedures, we provide exceptional cardiac care across our network of hospitals, outpatient centres and specialist clinics.
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London Bridge Hospital
27 Tooley Street
London
SE1 2PR
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The Harley Street Clinic
35 Weymouth Street
London W1G 8BJ
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The Wellington Hospital Cardiac Unit
North Building
Circus Road
London NW8 6PD
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The Harley Street Clinic Cardiac department
35 Weymouth Street
London W1G 8BJ
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London Arrhythmia Centre
2nd Floor, St Olaf’s House
27 Tooley Street
London SE1 2PR
Request a cardiac appointment
If heart symptoms are affecting your quality of life, we’re here to help. Our heart team is available to book an appointment with a cardiac specialist.
Call us today
020 7616 4988