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Updated: Aug 11, 2026

Benefits of Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy in an Asynchronous Heart Failure Model Induced by Left Bundle Branch Ablation and Rapid Pacing
Published on: December 11, 2017
Progress in cardiovascular disease: technical considerations in cardiac resynchronization therapy
Safwat A Gassis1, David B Delurgio, Angel R Leon
1Carlyle Fraser Heart Center, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30308, USA.
Insights
Cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) improves heart failure outcomes in patients with systolic dysfunction and conduction delays. Proper patient selection, implantation, and programming are crucial for optimal CRT benefits.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Medical Devices
Background:
- Cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) is indicated for patients with moderate to severe heart failure and ventricular dyssynchrony.
- Ventricular dyssynchrony is often identified by a prolonged QRS duration on electrocardiogram.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the technical aspects of CRT implantation and device programming.
- To guide clinicians in optimizing patient care and long-term response to CRT.
Main Methods:
- This review synthesizes current knowledge on CRT implementation.
- It focuses on practical considerations for patient preparation, complication surveillance, and device programming.
Main Results:
- CRT can improve symptoms, ventricular function, and survival in selected heart failure patients.
- Effective CRT requires meticulous attention to procedural technique and device optimization.
Conclusions:
- Clinicians must possess comprehensive knowledge of CRT to ensure successful patient outcomes.
- Optimizing CRT programming is essential for maximizing long-term therapeutic benefits.
Abstract:
Cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) has been shown to improve symptoms, ventricular function, and survival in patients with left ventricular systolic dysfunction and ventricular conduction delay. Patients with moderate to severe drug-refractory heart failure symptoms along with ventricular dyssynchrony, manifested as prolongation of the QRS duration on the surface electrocardiogram, benefit from CRT. Owing to the growing awareness and application of CRT, a large number of patients have been identified as candidates for this therapy, making it necessary for clinicians involved in the care of such patients to be adequately knowledgeable of various aspects of CRT implementation. In particular, clinicians involved in the care of these patients must be aware of the practical considerations in preparing patients for the implantation procedure, careful surveillance for early or late procedure-related complications, and knowledge of the fundamental device features so as to tailor therapeutic and programming techniques to improve long-term response to CRT. This review addresses the technical considerations of the implantation procedure and device function with emphasis on the initial and long-term programming to ensure optimal delivery of CRT.
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