Cardiac Electrophysiology Study
What Does Electrophysiology Study Mean? What does it tell my doctor about my heart? You may have been scheduled for an electrophysiology study. Electro, we know, means electrical, and physiology pertains to the body. This study does just that; it shows your doctor information about your heart and how its electrical system is functioning. Here, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about these tests, which can detect if there are issues with heart rhythms. These safe tests show doctors more information about abnormal heart rhythms. The tests are relatively painless, and you will be awake during testing.
You’ll be pleased to know that CVG’s ten locations mean a CVG office near you. That convenience can take a lot of the stress out of getting tested since it won’t be difficult to access care. Plus, our board-certified doctors do more than diagnose conditions. They’re here to help you live your best life, with recommendations on lifestyle changes and prescribed medications and treatments to help address heart issues.
CVG makes visiting the doctor an individualized experience that you will benefit from today and over time. Our doctors aim to help you with near-term issues and be proactive so you can enjoy better health in the future. Our tests give us a complete picture of your heart rhythm issues so we can pinpoint the most effective treatment for you.
Please read on if you’re wondering what else to expect during your visit. You will be awake during your tests and receive medication during these safe procedures. Expect to spend 1-4 hours on the tests. We can tell you ahead of time approximately how long it will take. It may take longer if we perform a cardiac ablation in addition to your tests.
An electrophysiology (EP) study gathers information about the heart’s electrical system to find the cause of heart rhythm problems.
During an electrophysiology (EP) study, your doctor and his or her accompanying medical assistance team will insert small wires called electrode catheters into the heart through a blood vessel. The catheters may direct electrical signals to your heart to stimulate it and test for an arrhythmia. They also may be used to map where abnormal signals are coming from in the heart. During an EP study, catheters may be used to regulate the heartbeat to stop an arrhythmia or to perform a catheter ablation, which treats an arrhythmia.
What to Expect During your Visit
To test for an arrhythmia, electrical signals may be sent to your heart to induce one and record any reactions.
You may be given medications to speed up heart rhythm to see how the heart responds.
During the study, the heart may be given an electrical shock (defibrillation) to stop an arrhythmia.
Frequently Asked Questions
Electrophysiology studies are relatively painless and very safe. As with any procedure, there are extremely rare risks involved, which your doctor can explain before you receive the treatment.
An electrophysiology study tests the heart’s electrical activity to determine where an arrhythmia, or abnormal heartbeat, is originating. The procedure is performed by inserting a small tube or catheter into the patient’s artery or vein, which is carefully guided to the heart. Small electrical impulses are sent through the tubes to make the heart beat at different speeds. These signals from the heart are recorded, allowing the doctor to identify the source of any arrhythmias. During the procedure, the patient is medicated to relax; however, they are usually conscious throughout.
An electrophysiology study, often called an EP study, is a sophisticated diagnostic procedure used to evaluate the heart’s electrical activity. This test is particularly valuable for patients experiencing abnormal heart rhythms, also known as arrhythmias. During an EP study, a cardiologist specializing in heart rhythm disorders, known as an electrophysiologist, uses thin, flexible wires called electrode catheters to map the electrical impulses in various regions of the heart.
An EP study is typically performed in a specialized cardiac catheterization laboratory. The patient is given a mild sedative to ensure comfort throughout the procedure. Small incisions are made to insert the electrode catheters into blood vessels, usually in the groin area. These catheters are then carefully guided to specific areas within the heart using advanced imaging techniques. Once in place, the electrophysiologist measures the heart’s electrical activity both at rest and during controlled stimulation. This stimulation may involve pacing the heart at various rates or delivering small electrical impulses to safely trigger arrhythmias in a controlled environment.
The primary goal of an EP study is to diagnose and characterize heart rhythm abnormalities. It helps identify where irregular beats originate and determines how electrical signals travel through the heart. This information is crucial for understanding the nature of the arrhythmia and its potential impact on the patient’s overall cardiac function. EP studies can diagnose various conditions, including atrial fibrillation, ventricular tachycardia, supraventricular tachycardia, and conduction disorders. Additionally, the procedure can assess the effectiveness of certain medications in controlling arrhythmias and evaluate the need for devices such as pacemakers or implantable cardioverter-defibrillators.
In many cases, an EP study serves as both a diagnostic tool and a treatment opportunity. If a treatable arrhythmia is identified during the procedure, the electrophysiologist may perform catheter ablation immediately. This involves using radiofrequency energy or extreme cold to destroy small areas of heart tissue responsible for the irregular rhythm. The ability to diagnose and treat in a single session can significantly reduce the need for multiple interventions and improve patient outcomes.
Our team of experienced cardiologists in Atlanta offers comprehensive electrophysiology services, including state-of-the-art EP studies. Don’t let heart rhythm concerns go unchecked—schedule a consultation with our Atlanta cardiologists today and take the first step toward a healthier heart.
Trust your heart health to CVG’s team of twenty board-certified cardiologists. Equipped with state-of-the-art diagnostic tools, extensive experience, and compassion, our cardiac team provides the highest level of personalized care.
You can review our cardiologists’ profiles to explore their exceptional credentials and dedication to delivering quality care. Rest assured that our doctors genuinely care about you and will do everything possible to ensure you enjoy the best quality of life.
To learn more, please call (770) 962-0399 or (678) 582-8586. You may also request an appointment online. If you have an emergency, do not contact us online; please call 911.