Cardiac Electrophysiologic Studies (EPS) & Irregular Heart Rhythm Treatment
What is Electrophysiology?
An electrophysiology study (EPS) is a test that records the electrical activity and the electrical pathways of your heart. It is used to:
- To determine the cause of an irregular heart rhythm.
- To locate the site of origin of an irregular heart rhythm.
- To decide the best treatment for an irregular heart rhythm.
How Does an EPS Work?
The EPS procedure is an invasive examination of the heart's electrical conduction system, using cardiac catheters and computers to create electrocardiogram (EKG/ECG) tracings and electrical measurements from within the heart chambers. The test is not painful and is performed in our cardiac catheterization lab by doctors and nurses who specialize in electrophysiology.
During the electrophysiologic test, temporary electrode catheters will be put into blood vessels, typically in the groin, then guided into the heart where they will evaluate the electrical activity. The electrodes can also be used to deliver small electrical impulses to the heart, which may trigger an arrhythmia (irregular heart rhythm). This allows your doctor to evaluate the heart's conduction system under controlled conditions, which is helpful in learning where the arrhythmias originate in order to make cardiac treatment decisions.
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Electrophysiology Diagram |
How Do I Prepare for an EPS?
- You will be required to have blood work prior to the procedure.
- You may be advised to stop taking certain medications, especially cardiac medications, which may interfere with the test results.
- Do not eat for six to eight hours prior to the prior to the procedure.
- You will be able to go home the same day.
If you are having cardiac electrocardiogram procedure you will be contacted prior to the procedure by a member of the team who will give you detailed instructions on how to prepare.
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For more information or to make an appointment please call 1-203-276-4777.
For more information or to make an appointment please call
1-877-233-WELL (9355).