What to Expect
The site where the catheters will be inserted is clean,
shaved, and numbed with a local anesthetic. Other
than a sedative, patients having an EP study do not
receive anesthetics because they can alter how the
heart functions.
EP tests are typically performed with the patient
lying flat on a table with an x-ray machine above
or on the side. During the test, electrocardiogram
electrodes are placed on the patient’s chest
and a blood pressure cuff is placed on the patient’s
arm.
To perform the test, the physician threads catheters
into and through the blood vessels and to the heart.
Electrodes on the tip of each catheter pick up electrical
activity from the heart tissue and send information
to a computer. The electrodes on the tip of the catheter
can also be used to send the electrical signals to
the heart. Called pacing, this allows the physician
to induce and observe an arrhythmia.
An EP test can take anywhere from 1 to 6 hours. When
the test is complete, the catheters are withdrawn,
pressure is applied to the insertion point to control
bleeding, and the patient usually is asked to remain
lying down for 4 to 6 hours. Within 8 hours, most
people can resume normal activity.
Post Test Guidelines
The results of an EP study can be used to prescribe
or adjust antiarrhythmic medication or the need for
a pacemaker or an implantable cardiac defibrillator
may be indicated. Heart surgery may also follow EP
testing.
For arrhythmias that do not endanger normal heart
function, no further treatment may be indicated.
Possible Complications
Complications from EP testing are usually minimal.
Very rarely, during EP tests during which physicians
induce arrhythmias, some individuals experience serious
rhythm abnormalities, including ventricular fibrillation.
The EP laboratory is equipped with a defibrillator,
which delivers an electrical shock that restores normal
heart rhythm.
A Valuable Diagnostic Tool
The Columbus Cardiology Associates are dedicated to
providing area residents with world class heart care
right in our neighborhood. Electrophysiology testing
is just one example of our dedication to you.
About EP Testing
EP tests are used to diagnose arrhythmias, or to determine
the exact cause of and plan treatment for an already
identified arrhythmia.
The four chambers of the heart are connected by an
intricate electrical system that controls the rate
and rhythm of the heartbeat. EP testing examines this
function from inside the heart itself using small
catheters. It is also referred to as Electrophysiology
Study, or EPS.
During an EP test, physicians can monitor the heart’s
electrical functions or stimulate the heart with electricity
in order to produce and observe the effects of an
arrhythmia and map the site it comes from.
The physicians at Columbus Cardiology Associates
are dedicated to quality cardiovascular healthcare
to our patients and the community we serve thru skilled
talented staff, utilizing the most innovative technology.
Please call our office at 706-323-5552 to schedule
an appointment or if you have any questions.
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