CRT-D devices are implantable Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy defibrillators for heart failure patients which follows their heart rhythm to detect irregularities and correct them with electrical impulses. It is meant to stop life-threatening tachycardia and fibrillation with relatively weak and painless electrical shocks.
Older CRT devices’ longevity at five years was 54%. However, recent-generation CRT-Ds display better durability. The cost of one of these devices in India is around 10 lakh.
Risks associated with these implantable device systems include infection at the surgical site, sensitivity to the device material, failure to deliver therapy when it is needed, or receiving extra therapy when it is not required. After receiving a CRT-D (MRI Non-Compatible) device, you will have limitations with respect to magnetic and electromagnetic radiation, electric or gas-powered appliances, and tools with which you are allowed to be in contact.
However, many patients report a significant improvement in their quality of life with a CRT-D implant.
Surgery is necessary to implant a CRT-D. The implantation procedure will cost you around USD 15,959 in India. Overall, the one-year and 5-year survival rates after implantation is 88 per cent and 54 per cent.
