CRT-D fellows - need your quick help

Hello guys,

My Dad is 67 years old and he has a EF of about 25%, he was hospitalized 3 days before due to heavy shortness of breath - Pulmonary edema, the doctors did mention he has severe heart failure where the heart has expanded quite a bit due to dis synchronized beating.

The did echo today and suggested CRT-D as a way of treatment.

I want to know from you guys who have CRT-D your opinions and whether it helped you guys?

Appreciate your quick help. Let me know if you need additional details

6 Comments

CRT

by Tracey_E - 2013-12-27 02:12:09

I don't have one so I can't tell you anything from personal experience, but synchronizing the left and right ventricles with a CRT is the best way, and pretty much the only way, to treat low EF. Some people have better results than others, but most see improvement.

CRT

by Brenda Price - 2013-12-27 07:12:02

I have had a CRT for 7 years. My ef was 20% it came up gradually and now is at 45%. I understand some have an immediate rise of ef and immediately feel better.
I think it is worth the gamble.

He will need some life style changes and it will not cure all heart problems but if he is in agreement. GO FOR IT

Good luck

CRT-D Helped me, without a doubt

by Grateful Heart - 2013-12-28 01:12:06

I have a CRT-D. My EF was 24% 5 years ago. After about 18 months my EF was 50% and at last check almost a year ago it was 55%. My heart is no longer enlarged.

For me, exercise, meds, change in diet, losing weight and great Doctors have all contributed to my success.

I highly recommend Cardiac Rehab for your Dad if his Doctor allows and he is able to lightly exercise on machines at his own pace. It is in a small group setting with Nurses who will monitor him as he gets used to his new device. It has helped many including myself since it is scary not knowing how hard we can push our hearts after the implant.

If you or your Dad have any questions, please feel free to ask.....we have all been there.

Welcome,

Grateful Heart

CRT-D opinions

by mkyah09 - 2013-12-28 04:12:42

Thanks Grateful heart..your comment is very encouraging and gives me more confidence to have it implanted for my dad , as his lifestyle is in bad shape with constant hospitalization.

Is there any brand we need to recommend?

Thanks for the initial feedback

by mkyah09 - 2013-12-28 12:12:28

Thanks Guys, appreciate your input and feedback. Thanks Angry sparrow for your PM as well and i understand it is entirely my dad's decision as well.

Brenda your comment gave more confidence.

Brands

by Grateful Heart - 2013-12-29 05:12:26

I am still on my first device, so I don't have experience with different brands. Mine happens to be a Boston Scientific CRT-D. From what I understand most brands are excellent, it just depends why your Dad needs one since some brands and models have certain features that may benefit your Dad more than others.

Usually, your EP Doctor knows which device is best for your Dads condition.

Others may come by here who know better.

Prayers for your Dad and his Doctor during surgery. He should start to feel better afterwards.

Grateful Heart

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