CRT-D

I would like to hear from people who have a CRT-D. I have Cardiomyopathy, LBBB, and an EF around 20 for years. After the CRT did anyone experience better breathing and energy? How long was the procedure please? I was supposed to go in today for pre surgery but the doctor had to postpone. I am going crazy

Thank you

8 Comments

CRT-D

by GrandmaD - 2012-03-05 04:03:57

As with every implant, everyones body reacts differant, I can say in my case that the CRT-D I had implanted worked right away. I went from a straight PM that was not any help to this unit which has done wonders. My surgery was a bit longer due to some other procedures which were done as well but even at that it was only about an hour. The thought of the procedure is a lot worse than what it is. you can expect to hurt, but with some prayers and a good doctor you should be fine.
My thoughts are with you
Deb

Anatomy differences

by Birdygirl - 2012-03-05 07:03:57

After my CRT-D implant I have experienced overall better breathing (especially when exercising) and energy. The energy I would have like to have seen more improvement in that area, but I think the meds (Coreg, Digoxin, etc.) make me drag a bit at times. My BP has been lowered now due to the meds I am prescribed which I think accounts for some lack of energy.
My surgery was fast (one hour) according to my doc as everything was in a perfect place for the lead placement. I think one of the factors about time of procedure is how your particular anatomy "presents" itself. It will vary from person to person.

Reply to CRT-D

by anniesu - 2012-03-05 10:03:45

HI...Raiderralph...Sounds like we have the same problems...LBBB, 25% ef and cardiomyopathy...I had a CRT-D jan 9th 2012,,The surgery wasnt bad and the healing wasnt that bad...Still dont feel like I wanted to.
But im still hoping everyone says my skin looks better and that I look better but I still have lots of fatigue I do
have to rest during the day...Im hoping for more improvement in the future...Good luck and keep us all posted about your condition...

CRT-D

by msmillholland - 2012-03-05 11:03:31

I had a CRT-D implanted in February of 2011 due to cardiomyopathy, LBBB, and a EF of 35%. The surgery was not bad, but I developed frozen shoulder and went through a few months of therapy for that. I still don't sleep comfortably on my left side. As for energy level, mine did improve after the implant, but not significantly. I think the meds sometimes make us feel tired. I have had three echos since my surgery and my EF is always
35%. I try not to look at the number and go more on how I feel. I hope your surgery goes well and your condition improves.
M. Millholland

CRT-D

by Grateful Heart - 2012-03-06 01:03:52

Hi RaiderRalph,

I too have Cardiomyopathy, LBBB, and my EF was 24%. I couldn't walk 40 ft. without being severely out of breath and like most of us, didn't know why. After the initial recovery period you will hopefully feel so much better, both in energy and breathing. It's been a little over 3 years now and my EF is 50%! I am very lucky and grateful, hence, my name.

Having an issue since the lead revision but that is another story. I hope your surgery and recovery goes well, it takes time.

CRT-D

by raiderralph - 2012-03-07 06:03:03

Thank you very much for your letter of encouragement. I am so happy and with God’s help I am prepared for this new experience. I have to be honest the whole thing terrifies me but I am luck, blessed to have a good support group and people like you who have been through it all. All the best to you

Placebo effect?

by rtabach - 2013-05-08 12:05:29

As a retired MD I am a curious guy. Post op 2 weeks crdt implant, I feel better, skip my afternoon nap and my wife says I am more energetic. I am seeking some objective way to measure whether my improved perceived energy and exercise tolerance is really physiologic or just placebo effect.Am I a responder, a super responder or just highly susceptible? The cardiologist all say that no test is reliable or predictive. Although I am an OB doc I am learning a hell of lot of cardiology these days. Is 2 weeks too early to make a difference?
RTABACH

Grateful Heart to RaiderRalph

by rtabach - 2013-05-10 10:05:51

I havent quite mastered communicating on this site, but am curious about who jumped from EF 24 to EF 50? How long did that take. Is grateful heart a super responder?

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