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Updated: Jul 4, 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
A case of diaphragmatic pacing with cardiac resynchronization therapy
Shoaib Hamid1, Aruna Arujuna, Christopher A Rinaldi
1Cardiothoracic Department, St Thomas' Hospital, London SE1 7EH, UK. shoaibhamid@hotmail.com
Insights
Cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) is a heart failure treatment. This case highlights unusual complications during CRT implantation, including coronary sinus dissection and diaphragmatic stimulation, beyond standard pacemaker risks.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Medical Devices
- Electrophysiology
Background:
- Cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) is an established treatment for heart failure patients with left ventricular systolic dysfunction.
- CRT implantation involves risks beyond those of standard pacemakers, including coronary sinus dissection and diaphragmatic stimulation.
Observation:
- A specific case of CRT implantation is presented.
- This case illustrates the potential for unusual complications during the procedure.
Findings:
- The case demonstrates specific CRT-related complications, such as coronary sinus dissection and diaphragmatic stimulation.
- These complications can arise during implantation, leading to extended procedure times and potential patient distress.
Implications:
- Understanding and anticipating these unusual complications is crucial for successful CRT implantation.
- Minimizing CRT-related risks can improve patient outcomes and procedural efficiency.
Abstract:
Cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) is now an accepted treatment for heart failure [McAlister et al. in Cardiac resynchronization therapy for patients with left ventricular systolic dysfunction: a systematic review. JAMA 2007;297:2502-14.]. In addition to the complications associated with standard pacemaker implants, CRT procedures have their own additional complications such as coronary sinus dissection, diaphragmatic stimulation, and longer implant times. We present a case of CRT implantation which illustrates these problems because of an unusual complication.
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