Heart Failure Care (CRT insertion)

When your heart begins to fail, you can feel tired, short of breath, and generally unable to do things you once enjoyed. This is because your heart is working harder than it should, but it is not pumping blood well. This can lead to swelling, fatigue, and an overall decline in well-being. If medications alone are not enough, Cardiac Resynchronisation Therapy (CRT) may be an option.

CRT insertion is a procedure in which a special type of pacemaker, called a CRT device, is implanted to help your heart beat normally. This device is different from a standard pacemaker because it works on both lower chambers of your heart, ensuring they contract at the right time. This improves blood flow and can relieve any symptoms related to heart failure. 

During the procedure, small wires (leads) are placed inside your heart through a vein. These wires connect to the CRT device, which sends electrical pulses to help your heart pump more efficiently. The procedure is performed under local anaesthesia and usually takes a few hours.

CRT may be recommended if you have:

Not everyone with heart failure needs a CRT device. We will give you an evaluation that includes various heart tests, like an echocardiogram or ECG. This will help us determine what is right for you.

You may need to avoid eating or drinking for a few hours before the procedure. If you take certain medications, we might advise you to adjust them. In addition, you should arrange for someone to take you home afterwards. We will give you detailed instructions before the procedure. If you have any questions, ask your doctor what to expect before, during, and after the treatment. Always remember that proper preparation helps ensure a smooth procedure.

Recovery varies from person to person, but most patients go home within a day or two. You may experience mild soreness near the incision site, which improves in a few days. It is important to follow any aftercare instructions from Dr Mtwesi. These instructions may include:

As your heart adjusts to the device, your symptoms may change within a few weeks or months. If you experience swelling, pain, or unusual sensations in your chest, contact Dr Mtwesi immediately.

Living with heart failure can be challenging, but treatment options like CRT may help improve your quality of life. If you have any of these symptoms and want to see whether CRT is right for you, schedule a consultation . Understanding your heart health is the first step toward feeling better.