Electrophysiologic Studies (EPS)
What is This?
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 abnormal heart rhythm.
- To locate the site of origin of an abnormal heart rhythm.
- To decide the best treatment for an abnormal heart rhythm.
How Does it Work?
This 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 cathaterization lab by doctors and nurses who specialize in electrophysiology.
During the 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. 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 treatment decisions.
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Electrophysiology Diagram |
How Do I Prepare?
- You will be required to have blood work prior to the procedure.
- You may be advised to stop taking certain medications, especially cardiac medications, that 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 one of these procedures 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).