Cardiac contractility modulation (CCM) therapy is a treatment option for people diagnosed with heart failure. Here’s how CCM works, and how to request an appointment with The Center for Atrial Fibrillation and Electrophysiology at HCA to find out whether this option is right for you.
What Is Cardiac Contractility Modulation Therapy?
CCM is indicated for people who have been diagnosed with moderate to severe heart failure. It works by increasing the strength of your heart’s contractions so it can function more efficiently.
CCM therapy works via a small, implantable device that delivers precisely timed electrical pulses to the heart to help it pump stronger and more forcibly—allowing it to send higher amounts of blood and oxygen throughout the body. According to a study in the International Journal of Cardiology: Cardiovascular Risk and Prevention, CCM therapy is shown to improve quality of life, increase exercise capacity, and reduce mortality in people who are living with heart failure.
The implantable device used in CCM must be charged for one hour every week using an external charger. It can provide you with CCM therapy for up to 20 years before it requires replacement.
How Is It Performed?
The procedure for implanting the device used in CCM therapy is minimally invasive and typically performed under light sedation.
The device, which is about the same size as a pacemaker, is implanted just under the skin on the upper chest, along with electrical leads that are inserted into your veins and through the heart’s right ventricle. It is programmed specifically for you and your condition by the electrophysiologist who performs the procedure. After your CCM device is programmed, it will send precisely timed electrical pulses to your heart during one-hour treatment sessions that occur at scheduled intervals throughout the day.
At The Center for Atrial Fibrillation and Electrophysiology at HCA, all CCM devices and treatment plans are implanted and overseen by Andrew Rudnick, MD and Gautam Verma, MD.
Who Are Ideal Candidates for CCM?
The goal of CCM therapy is to reduce your symptoms and help you find relief, especially when your condition doesn’t respond to other treatments, including medications, cardiac defibrillators, or cardiac resynchronization devices.
Ideal candidates for CCM therapy include those with moderate to severe heart failure who want to take their life back and achieve the activity level they had prior to their diagnosis. CCM may also be right for you if you are still experiencing heart failure symptoms despite taking medications and have difficulty performing everyday activities due to your condition.
If you are diagnosed with heart failure, consider seeing an electrophysiologist who can help determine whether CCM therapy is ideal for you based on your medical history and condition.
The physicians and staff at The Center for Atrial Fibrillation and Electrophysiology at HCA are devoted to our patients and to the commitment of providing quality patient care on all levels. Contact us at 908-806-0190 to request an appointment if you are experiencing symptoms of heart failure.