Cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) or biventricular pacing is a useful treatment for heart failure and those suffering from arrhythmias. The purpose of this research study is to determine the effect left-ventricular pacing has on patients who have a ventricular assist device.
As part of the study participation the following two visits will be completed as listed below. Baseline Visit: The following procedures will be conducted at this visit: * Review of past medical history and medical records; * A limited echocardiogram will be performed. This is a test that uses ultrasound to evaluate the size of the heart and how well the heart is pumping blood. * The investigators will use a computer-like device, called a programmer, that "talks" to the CRT device using radio signals or by using wanded telemetry to adjust the CRT device's programmed settings. The left ventricular lead of your device will be turned off. The defibrillator will continue to function and back-up pacing will continue if needed. * Complete the Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire (KCCQ). * A 6 minute walk test will be done. Regularly Scheduled Clinic Visit: At the next regularly scheduled Left Ventricular Assist Devices (LVAD) clinic visit, approximately 4 weeks after the baseline visit, the following procedures will be done: * A second limited echocardiogram. * The investigator will use a computer-like device, called a programmer, that "talks" to the CRT device using radio signals or by using a wand to obtain a report that will give the current program settings and any heart rhythm events that have occurred since the last CRT device was checked. Once the information from the CRT is obtained, the study doctor will reprogram the device to its original settings. * Complete the Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire (KCCQ). * A 6 minute walk test will be done.
Study Type
OBSERVATIONAL
Enrollment
6
The following procedures will be performed: limited echocardiogram, an adjustment to the CRT device's programmed settings, follow-up in 30 days to adjust the CRT device's programmed settings. In addition, quality of life questionnaires will be filled out and a 6 minute walk test will be completed.
University of Florida
Gainesville, Florida, United States
Change in echocardiographic parameters
A comparison of the echocardiogram completed at enrollment and at 30 days.
Time frame: Change in baseline to 30 days
6 minute walk distance
A trained staff member will supervise participants in the completion of a 6 minute walk test. They will be instructed to walk on a level surface, on a clearly marked indoor course. heart rate and oxygen level will be monitored. The total distance completed at the end of 6 minutes will be noted.
Time frame: Change in baseline to 30 days
Quality of Life
A comparison of the questionnaires completed at enrollment and at 30 days.
Time frame: Change in baseline to 30 days
Number of Ventricular Tachycardia Episodes
At baseline and again at 30 days CRT device interrogation will be done to count the number of ventricular tachycardia episodes with LV pacing on and off.
Time frame: Change in baseline to 30 days
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