Cardiac resynchronization therapy: history, present status, and future directions
Leeor M Jaffe1, Daniel P Morin2
1John Ochsner Heart and Vascular Institute, Ochsner Clinic Foundation, New Orleans, LA.
Background:
Cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) is one of the most exciting recent advancements in heart failure (HF) treatment.
Methods:
This review surveys the available literature regarding the effectiveness of CRT in treating patients with HF.
Results:
By targeting ventricular dyssynchrony, CRT attempts to give the failing heart a mechanical advantage that can substantially improve both symptoms and mortality.
Conclusion:
CRT results in short-term and long-term improvement in cardiac structure and function, often leading to enhanced quality of life and, for some patients, enhanced survival.
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