Risks
Our Approach to CRT
If you have advanced heart failure or cardiomyopathy, the lower chambers of your heart may not beat together as they should. This type of abnormal heartbeat, or arrhythmia, can leave you feeling fatigued and short of breath.
Our arrhythmia team offers cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT), using a special pacemaker to help the lower heart chambers, known as ventricles, pump at the same time. In a clinical trial studying CRT, our team was able to show that this therapy can slow the advancement of heart failure.
WHAT WE OFFER YOU FOR CRT
- Nationally recognized expertise in CRT programming and device management to tailor treatment to your specific needs
- Remote device monitoring by our device nurses, who can monitor your pacemaker and address any issues as soon as they arise—meaning fewer office visits.
- Support services for all aspects of your care, including device management, support groups, and individual counseling for people living with a CRT pacemaker.
- Thought leadership by our doctors who publish articles and textbooks to train other electrophysiologists in the latest CRT advances.
- Active research program with an instrumental role in demonstrating that cardiac resynchronization therapy can prevent heart failure from worsening.
To request an appointment with one of our arrhythmia specialists, call: 650-723-7111.
What Is Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy?
What to Expect
Our doctors perform the implantation of a cardiac resynchronization therapy device in the cardiac catheterization laboratory. Learn more about what to expect.
Before
During
After
At Home
Before the Procedure
The doctor or an advanced practice provider will explain the procedure and offer the opportunity to ask any questions about the procedure.
Patients will not be able to eat or drink for eight hours prior to surgery.
If patient is pregnant or suspects pregnancy, patient should notify the doctor.
Please make the doctor aware of the following items:
- Sensitivities or allergies for any medications, iodine, latex, tape, or anesthetic agents (local and general)
- All current medications (prescription and over-the-counter) and herbal supplements
- A history of bleeding disorders or if you are taking any anticoagulant (blood-thinning) medications, aspirin, or other medications that affect blood clotting
- It may be necessary for you to stop some of these medications prior to the procedure. The doctor or care team member will discuss this prior to scheduling the procedure
The doctor may request a blood test prior to the procedure to determine how long it takes for the blood to clot. Other blood tests may be done as well.
The upper chest may be clipped prior to the procedure.
A special wash kit will be given to be used the day before and the day of the procedure.
Based upon the medical condition, the doctor may request other specific preparation.
During the Procedure
Implantation of the Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy (CRT) Device
The procedure is performed in the cardiac catheterization laboratory. The patient may be given either sedation or general anesthesia. If general anesthesia is used, patients will be placed under the care of an anesthesiologist who will give medication to help with relaxation during the procedure. A local anesthetic will be given at the site of the CRT implant, usually beneath the collarbone on the left side of the upper chest.
After the area is numb, the doctor will create a "pocket" or space for the generator. Access to the vein under the collarbone is obtained and one or more leads (thin wire-like tubes) are advanced to the heart. The lead system will be placed in your heart, through a vein in your upper chest and guided into position with the assistance of fluoroscopy (X-ray).
The wire or lead to be used to pace the left ventricle will be advanced into the vein on the outside of the left ventricle. In about 10% of cases, it is not possible to place the wire or lead into the vein to pace the left ventricle, usually because the branches of the veins are too small.
In about 5 to 10% of cases, the wire or lead may need to be repositioned because it has moved or paces the diaphragm, causing the chest to twitch. Once the wires are in position, the doctor will make a two- to three-inch incision in the skin under the collar bone, creating a small "pocket." The wires or leads will be connected to the CRT device, which will then be placed into the pocket.
Once the lead is secured in place, it is attached to the generator. While patient is asleep, the device is programmed and tested.
The incision will then be sutured and a dressing will be placed over it. The entire procedure will last 3-4 hours.
Generally, an CRT insertion follows this process:
- Patients will be asked to remove any jewelry or other objects that may interfere with the procedure
- Patients will be asked to remove clothing and will be given a gown to wear
- Patients will be asked to empty their bladder prior to the procedure
- An intravenous (IV) line will be started in the hand or arm prior to the procedure for injection of medication and to administer IV fluids, if needed
- Patients will be placed in a supine (on the back) position on the procedure table
- Patients will be connected to an electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) monitor that records the electrical activity of the heart and monitors the heart during the procedure using small, adhesive electrodes. Vital signs (heart rate, blood pressure, breathing rate, and oxygenation level) will be monitored during the procedure
- Large electrode pads will be placed on the front and back of the chest
- Patients will receive a sedative medication in the IV before the procedure to help patients relax. However, patients will likely remain awake during the procedure
- The CRT insertion site will be cleansed with antiseptic soap
- Sterile towels and a sheet will be placed around this area
- A local anesthetic will be injected into the skin at the insertion site
- Once the anesthetic has taken effect, the doctor will make a small incision at the insertion site
- A sheath, or introducer, is inserted into a blood vessel, usually under the collarbone. The sheath is a plastic tube through which the lead wire will be inserted into the blood vessel and advanced into the heart
- It will be very important for patients to remain still during the procedure so that the catheter placement will not be disturbed and to prevent damage to the insertion site
- The wire or lead to be used to pace the left ventricle will be advanced into the vein on the outside of the left ventricle. In about 10% of cases, it is not possible to place the wire or lead into the vein to pace the left ventricle, usually because the branches of the veins are too small.
- The lead wire will be inserted through the introducer into the blood vessel. The doctor will advance the lead wire through the blood vessel into the heart.
- Once the lead wire is inside the heart, it will be tested to verify proper location and that it works. There may be one, two, or three lead wires inserted, depending on the type of device the doctor has chosen for the condition. Fluoroscopy, a special type of x-ray that will be displayed on a TV monitor, may be used to assist in testing the location of the leads
- Once the lead wire has been tested, an incision will be made close to the location of the catheter insertion (just under the collarbone). Patients will receive local anesthetic medication before the incision is made
- The CRT generator will be slipped under the skin through the incision after the lead wire is attached to the generator. Generally, the generator will be placed on the non-dominant side. (If patients are right-handed, the device will be placed in the upper left chest. If patients are left-handed, the device will be placed in the upper right chest)
- The ECG will be observed to ensure that the pacer is working correctly.
- The skin incision will be closed with sutures, adhesive strips, or a special glue
- A sterile bandage/dressing will be applied
After the Procedure
After the procedure, patients will be admitted to a monitored unit for overnight observation. A nurse will monitor vital signs for a specified period. Patients will be instructed not to move the arm on the side of the implant. This gives the lead time to stabilize in the vein and heart. If patients feel soreness after this procedure, notify the nurse who will give you medication to make you more comfortable.
Patients should immediately notify the nurse if they feel any chest pain or tightness, or any other pain at the incision site.
After the specified period of bed rest has been completed, patients may get out of bed. The nurse will assist patients the first time they get up, and will check their blood pressure while lying in bed, sitting, and standing. Patients should move slowly when getting up from the bed to avoid any dizziness from the period of bedrest.
Patients will be able to eat or drink once completely awake. The insertion site may be sore or painful, but pain medication may be administered if needed.
The doctor will visit with patients in their room while recovering to discuss instructions and answer any questions.
Once blood pressure, pulse, and breathing are stable and patients are alert, they will be taken to their hospital room or discharged home. Patients are reassured that the defibrillator will not harm others even if it should fire while the patient is touching someone else. Patients should arrange to have someone drive home from the hospital following the procedure.
At Home
Patients must do several things to care for themselves after leaving the hospital. Antibiotics are sometimes prescribed and may need to be taken for a full five day course. Check temperature twice daily to determine if it is elevated (possibly indicating an infection).
Patients will most likely be able to resume their usual diet, unless the doctor instructs differently.
Ask the doctor about returning to work. Occupation, overall health status, and progress will determine how soon patients may return to work.
It will be important to keep the insertion site clean and dry. The doctor will give specific bathing instructions.
The doctor may give additional or alternate instructions after the procedure, depending on the patient’s need
Patients are instructed not to lift the elbow that is on the side of the defibrillator above the ear for 4 weeks after implantation. Movement of the large shoulder muscle could cause the lead inside of the heart to move out of position. Patients may be instructed not to lift the arms above the head for a period.
Patients are instructed not to participate in any activities that require forceful large arm movements, such as basketball, swimming, and golf, for 4 weeks following surgery. Patients should discuss questions about exercise with their Arrhythmia Team.
Driving should be discussed on an individual basis with the patient's doctor. Patients with a CRT should not drive until the doctor gives approval. The doctor will explain these limitations, if they are applicable to the patient’s situation.
Patients are instructed to avoid sitting in the sun without covering the generator site because it may become excessively warm beneath the skin.
Patients should slowly increase activity over several days. The doctor will tell patients if they will need to take more time in returning to your normal activities. Avoid heavy lifting, and activities that involve rough contact with the area where the pulse generator and leads are located.
Activity on the side of the CRT should be limited for 4-6 weeks (6 weeks recommended for Biventricular ICD) as follows:
- Do not lift the elbow that is on the side of your CRT above the shoulder. Movement of the large shoulder muscle could cause the lead inside of the heart to move out of position. Repositioning of the leads will require a surgical procedure
- Do not participate in any activities that require forceful large arm movements, such as basketball, swimming, golf, and vacuuming
- Do not lift anything over 10 pounds
- We recommend walking for at least 30 minutes, five days a week. You may increase your activities slowly and resume your usual level of activity after 6 weeks
- If you have additional questions about activities and exercise, please discuss them with your Stanford care team
Driving should be discussed on an individual basis with your doctor.
Cover the CRT site if in direct sunlight as the metal of the device will warm beneath the skin.
Electromagnetic fields can interfere with the device's ability to sense an abnormal rhythm. Some devices and machines are safe to use while other devices are not:
- Safe to use microwave ovens, computers, VCRs, small electrical tools, and garage door openers
- Avoid devices or areas that have strong electric or magnetic fields such as: leaning over a car engine while it is running, running motorcycle engines, power plants, ham radios, etc.
- Cellular phones, MP3 players, and headphones should be held at least 6 inches away from your CRT. Hold the phone on the ear opposite your CRT and avoid keeping your phone and headphones in a pocket on top of your CRT. Avoid resting your head on the chest of a person with a CRT while wearing headphones.
- When traveling in the airport, tell security you have a CRT and request for a hand search instead of walking through the metal detector. The metal detector will not harm the CRT but it may set off the alarm. Limit scanning with a hand-held metal detector over the device no longer than necessary.
- Inform your health care provider, such as your dentist, that you have a CRT before they perform any test or procedure using medical or electronic devices:
- If you are to undergo dental procedures or any type of surgery involving electrocautery, have your dentist/doctor contact either the device manufacturer or Cardiac Arrhythmia Service. The electrocautery might be misinterpreted by the CRT as an arrhythmia and deliver a shock or therapy that you do not need.
- Normal teeth cleaning are safe and require no special instructions.
Important: You cannot have an MRI done because of the possible magnetic interference.
Carry your CRT identification card in your wallet at all times. You will be given a temporary card upon discharge. A permanent card will be mailed to you from the manufacturer in 6-8 weeks.
We suggest that you wear a Medic Alert Emblem. Please ask for the form if you have not been given one.
Please notify your the manufacturer if you have a new address or phone number. Their toll-free phone number is on the temporary and permanent identification card.
If you feel any of the following symptoms, you should lie down immediately, make sure you are in a safe environment, away from any machines or moving vehiceles, and call a friend or family member, or call 911:
- Lightheadedness
- Fast heart rate (palpitations)
- Dizziness
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath
- Fainting or near fainting (syncope)
Call 911 immediately for the following:
- If you receive 1-2 shock but you still do not feel well
- If you receive 3 or more shocks in rapid succession
- If you receive a shock but become or remain unconscious, bystanders should call 911 and immediately start CPR
Call the Stanford Arrhythmia Service at (650) 723-7111 for the following:
- If you receive 1-2 shocks and feel that your heart rhythm is back to normal. This is not an emergency if you feel okay but it is important to inform us immediately after the shock
- If you did not have any symptoms of an arrhythmia but received a shock, we will set up an appointment to confirm appropriateness of your CRT
- If you receive a shock from the CRT while in contact with another person, it will not harm them
- Discuss a plan with your family members and friends on what should be done if you receive a shock from your CRT (also called a “shock plan”)
It is advisable that family members be certified in CPR. Classes are available at local chapters of the American Heart Association or the Red Cross.
At discharge, you will be given a clinic appointment for a wound check at Stanford within 10 to 14 days after implant. Please contact the Stanford Device Clinic at (650) 723-6459 if an appointment for a wound check prior to discharge has not been arranged for you.
It is very important that you have your CRT checked regularly (4 to 6 weeks after implant and every 3 to 4 months thereafter).
It is recommended that you know your CRT parameters. We will give you a copy of your parameters and answer any questions that you may have regarding your device programming upon discharge or during your first clinic visit for a wound check or device check.
Some devices are equipped with Remote Monitoring capabilities where you can send information about your CRT from home that the clinic can view. We recommend that you have this capability for your routine device surveillance. We will discuss with you at your clinic visit.
The device clinic will hold a quarterly patient education seminar regarding general information about CRT. We will give you the opportunity to ask specific questions regarding your device and to interact with other patients with CRT. Please ask us for the seminar schedule.
Important Phone Numbers
Stanford Arrhythmia Service: (650) 723-7111 - for questions or problems (available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week)
Stanford Device Clinic: (650) 723-6459 - for appointments
Before the Procedure
The doctor or an advanced practice provider will explain the procedure and offer the opportunity to ask any questions about the procedure.
Patients will not be able to eat or drink for eight hours prior to surgery.
If patient is pregnant or suspects pregnancy, patient should notify the doctor.
Please make the doctor aware of the following items:
- Sensitivities or allergies for any medications, iodine, latex, tape, or anesthetic agents (local and general)
- All current medications (prescription and over-the-counter) and herbal supplements
- A history of bleeding disorders or if you are taking any anticoagulant (blood-thinning) medications, aspirin, or other medications that affect blood clotting
- It may be necessary for you to stop some of these medications prior to the procedure. The doctor or care team member will discuss this prior to scheduling the procedure
The doctor may request a blood test prior to the procedure to determine how long it takes for the blood to clot. Other blood tests may be done as well.
The upper chest may be clipped prior to the procedure.
A special wash kit will be given to be used the day before and the day of the procedure.
Based upon the medical condition, the doctor may request other specific preparation.
close Before
During the Procedure
Implantation of the Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy (CRT) Device
The procedure is performed in the cardiac catheterization laboratory. The patient may be given either sedation or general anesthesia. If general anesthesia is used, patients will be placed under the care of an anesthesiologist who will give medication to help with relaxation during the procedure. A local anesthetic will be given at the site of the CRT implant, usually beneath the collarbone on the left side of the upper chest.
After the area is numb, the doctor will create a "pocket" or space for the generator. Access to the vein under the collarbone is obtained and one or more leads (thin wire-like tubes) are advanced to the heart. The lead system will be placed in your heart, through a vein in your upper chest and guided into position with the assistance of fluoroscopy (X-ray).
The wire or lead to be used to pace the left ventricle will be advanced into the vein on the outside of the left ventricle. In about 10% of cases, it is not possible to place the wire or lead into the vein to pace the left ventricle, usually because the branches of the veins are too small.
In about 5 to 10% of cases, the wire or lead may need to be repositioned because it has moved or paces the diaphragm, causing the chest to twitch. Once the wires are in position, the doctor will make a two- to three-inch incision in the skin under the collar bone, creating a small "pocket." The wires or leads will be connected to the CRT device, which will then be placed into the pocket.
Once the lead is secured in place, it is attached to the generator. While patient is asleep, the device is programmed and tested.
The incision will then be sutured and a dressing will be placed over it. The entire procedure will last 3-4 hours.
Generally, an CRT insertion follows this process:
- Patients will be asked to remove any jewelry or other objects that may interfere with the procedure
- Patients will be asked to remove clothing and will be given a gown to wear
- Patients will be asked to empty their bladder prior to the procedure
- An intravenous (IV) line will be started in the hand or arm prior to the procedure for injection of medication and to administer IV fluids, if needed
- Patients will be placed in a supine (on the back) position on the procedure table
- Patients will be connected to an electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) monitor that records the electrical activity of the heart and monitors the heart during the procedure using small, adhesive electrodes. Vital signs (heart rate, blood pressure, breathing rate, and oxygenation level) will be monitored during the procedure
- Large electrode pads will be placed on the front and back of the chest
- Patients will receive a sedative medication in the IV before the procedure to help patients relax. However, patients will likely remain awake during the procedure
- The CRT insertion site will be cleansed with antiseptic soap
- Sterile towels and a sheet will be placed around this area
- A local anesthetic will be injected into the skin at the insertion site
- Once the anesthetic has taken effect, the doctor will make a small incision at the insertion site
- A sheath, or introducer, is inserted into a blood vessel, usually under the collarbone. The sheath is a plastic tube through which the lead wire will be inserted into the blood vessel and advanced into the heart
- It will be very important for patients to remain still during the procedure so that the catheter placement will not be disturbed and to prevent damage to the insertion site
- The wire or lead to be used to pace the left ventricle will be advanced into the vein on the outside of the left ventricle. In about 10% of cases, it is not possible to place the wire or lead into the vein to pace the left ventricle, usually because the branches of the veins are too small.
- The lead wire will be inserted through the introducer into the blood vessel. The doctor will advance the lead wire through the blood vessel into the heart.
- Once the lead wire is inside the heart, it will be tested to verify proper location and that it works. There may be one, two, or three lead wires inserted, depending on the type of device the doctor has chosen for the condition. Fluoroscopy, a special type of x-ray that will be displayed on a TV monitor, may be used to assist in testing the location of the leads
- Once the lead wire has been tested, an incision will be made close to the location of the catheter insertion (just under the collarbone). Patients will receive local anesthetic medication before the incision is made
- The CRT generator will be slipped under the skin through the incision after the lead wire is attached to the generator. Generally, the generator will be placed on the non-dominant side. (If patients are right-handed, the device will be placed in the upper left chest. If patients are left-handed, the device will be placed in the upper right chest)
- The ECG will be observed to ensure that the pacer is working correctly.
- The skin incision will be closed with sutures, adhesive strips, or a special glue
- A sterile bandage/dressing will be applied
close During
After the Procedure
After the procedure, patients will be admitted to a monitored unit for overnight observation. A nurse will monitor vital signs for a specified period. Patients will be instructed not to move the arm on the side of the implant. This gives the lead time to stabilize in the vein and heart. If patients feel soreness after this procedure, notify the nurse who will give you medication to make you more comfortable.
Patients should immediately notify the nurse if they feel any chest pain or tightness, or any other pain at the incision site.
After the specified period of bed rest has been completed, patients may get out of bed. The nurse will assist patients the first time they get up, and will check their blood pressure while lying in bed, sitting, and standing. Patients should move slowly when getting up from the bed to avoid any dizziness from the period of bedrest.
Patients will be able to eat or drink once completely awake. The insertion site may be sore or painful, but pain medication may be administered if needed.
The doctor will visit with patients in their room while recovering to discuss instructions and answer any questions.
Once blood pressure, pulse, and breathing are stable and patients are alert, they will be taken to their hospital room or discharged home. Patients are reassured that the defibrillator will not harm others even if it should fire while the patient is touching someone else. Patients should arrange to have someone drive home from the hospital following the procedure.
close After
At Home
Patients must do several things to care for themselves after leaving the hospital. Antibiotics are sometimes prescribed and may need to be taken for a full five day course. Check temperature twice daily to determine if it is elevated (possibly indicating an infection).
Patients will most likely be able to resume their usual diet, unless the doctor instructs differently.
Ask the doctor about returning to work. Occupation, overall health status, and progress will determine how soon patients may return to work.
It will be important to keep the insertion site clean and dry. The doctor will give specific bathing instructions.
The doctor may give additional or alternate instructions after the procedure, depending on the patient’s need
Patients are instructed not to lift the elbow that is on the side of the defibrillator above the ear for 4 weeks after implantation. Movement of the large shoulder muscle could cause the lead inside of the heart to move out of position. Patients may be instructed not to lift the arms above the head for a period.
Patients are instructed not to participate in any activities that require forceful large arm movements, such as basketball, swimming, and golf, for 4 weeks following surgery. Patients should discuss questions about exercise with their Arrhythmia Team.
Driving should be discussed on an individual basis with the patient's doctor. Patients with a CRT should not drive until the doctor gives approval. The doctor will explain these limitations, if they are applicable to the patient’s situation.
Patients are instructed to avoid sitting in the sun without covering the generator site because it may become excessively warm beneath the skin.
Patients should slowly increase activity over several days. The doctor will tell patients if they will need to take more time in returning to your normal activities. Avoid heavy lifting, and activities that involve rough contact with the area where the pulse generator and leads are located.
Activity on the side of the CRT should be limited for 4-6 weeks (6 weeks recommended for Biventricular ICD) as follows:
- Do not lift the elbow that is on the side of your CRT above the shoulder. Movement of the large shoulder muscle could cause the lead inside of the heart to move out of position. Repositioning of the leads will require a surgical procedure
- Do not participate in any activities that require forceful large arm movements, such as basketball, swimming, golf, and vacuuming
- Do not lift anything over 10 pounds
- We recommend walking for at least 30 minutes, five days a week. You may increase your activities slowly and resume your usual level of activity after 6 weeks
- If you have additional questions about activities and exercise, please discuss them with your Stanford care team
Driving should be discussed on an individual basis with your doctor.
Cover the CRT site if in direct sunlight as the metal of the device will warm beneath the skin.
Electromagnetic fields can interfere with the device's ability to sense an abnormal rhythm. Some devices and machines are safe to use while other devices are not:
- Safe to use microwave ovens, computers, VCRs, small electrical tools, and garage door openers
- Avoid devices or areas that have strong electric or magnetic fields such as: leaning over a car engine while it is running, running motorcycle engines, power plants, ham radios, etc.
- Cellular phones, MP3 players, and headphones should be held at least 6 inches away from your CRT. Hold the phone on the ear opposite your CRT and avoid keeping your phone and headphones in a pocket on top of your CRT. Avoid resting your head on the chest of a person with a CRT while wearing headphones.
- When traveling in the airport, tell security you have a CRT and request for a hand search instead of walking through the metal detector. The metal detector will not harm the CRT but it may set off the alarm. Limit scanning with a hand-held metal detector over the device no longer than necessary.
- Inform your health care provider, such as your dentist, that you have a CRT before they perform any test or procedure using medical or electronic devices:
- If you are to undergo dental procedures or any type of surgery involving electrocautery, have your dentist/doctor contact either the device manufacturer or Cardiac Arrhythmia Service. The electrocautery might be misinterpreted by the CRT as an arrhythmia and deliver a shock or therapy that you do not need.
- Normal teeth cleaning are safe and require no special instructions.
Important: You cannot have an MRI done because of the possible magnetic interference.
Carry your CRT identification card in your wallet at all times. You will be given a temporary card upon discharge. A permanent card will be mailed to you from the manufacturer in 6-8 weeks.
We suggest that you wear a Medic Alert Emblem. Please ask for the form if you have not been given one.
Please notify your the manufacturer if you have a new address or phone number. Their toll-free phone number is on the temporary and permanent identification card.
If you feel any of the following symptoms, you should lie down immediately, make sure you are in a safe environment, away from any machines or moving vehiceles, and call a friend or family member, or call 911:
- Lightheadedness
- Fast heart rate (palpitations)
- Dizziness
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath
- Fainting or near fainting (syncope)
Call 911 immediately for the following:
- If you receive 1-2 shock but you still do not feel well
- If you receive 3 or more shocks in rapid succession
- If you receive a shock but become or remain unconscious, bystanders should call 911 and immediately start CPR
Call the Stanford Arrhythmia Service at (650) 723-7111 for the following:
- If you receive 1-2 shocks and feel that your heart rhythm is back to normal. This is not an emergency if you feel okay but it is important to inform us immediately after the shock
- If you did not have any symptoms of an arrhythmia but received a shock, we will set up an appointment to confirm appropriateness of your CRT
- If you receive a shock from the CRT while in contact with another person, it will not harm them
- Discuss a plan with your family members and friends on what should be done if you receive a shock from your CRT (also called a “shock plan”)
It is advisable that family members be certified in CPR. Classes are available at local chapters of the American Heart Association or the Red Cross.
At discharge, you will be given a clinic appointment for a wound check at Stanford within 10 to 14 days after implant. Please contact the Stanford Device Clinic at (650) 723-6459 if an appointment for a wound check prior to discharge has not been arranged for you.
It is very important that you have your CRT checked regularly (4 to 6 weeks after implant and every 3 to 4 months thereafter).
It is recommended that you know your CRT parameters. We will give you a copy of your parameters and answer any questions that you may have regarding your device programming upon discharge or during your first clinic visit for a wound check or device check.
Some devices are equipped with Remote Monitoring capabilities where you can send information about your CRT from home that the clinic can view. We recommend that you have this capability for your routine device surveillance. We will discuss with you at your clinic visit.
The device clinic will hold a quarterly patient education seminar regarding general information about CRT. We will give you the opportunity to ask specific questions regarding your device and to interact with other patients with CRT. Please ask us for the seminar schedule.
Important Phone Numbers
Stanford Arrhythmia Service: (650) 723-7111 - for questions or problems (available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week)
Stanford Device Clinic: (650) 723-6459 - for appointments
close At Home
Our Clinics
Our internationally known team includes highly trained doctors, surgeons, device nurses, and other care providers from several heart specialties. We offer the latest advancements in arrhythmia care to relieve your symptoms and improve your health.
RELATED CLINICS
2nd Floor, Room A260
Stanford, CA 94305
Phone: 650-736-7878