Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy in Patients with Chronic Heart Failure: Current State of the Art
Chronic heart failure (CHF) is a very common cause of cardiovascular morbidity, and the number of CHF patients is constantly increasing. The latest advances in medication therapy have not resulted in any significant improvements. Cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) is now becoming an increasingly popular option. CARE-HF and COMPANION studies established standard indications for CRT. REVERSE and MADIT-CRT studies in patients with class I-II CHF were completed in 2008-2009, and led a year later to an updating of current guidelines. Despite this, many unresolved questions still exist concerning indications and effectiveness of this treatment option in various CHF patient populations. The article reviews the current state of this art.