Electrophysiology Studies
What are Electrophysiology Studies?
These tests look at your heart's electrical function and locate places inside your heart that may be causing abnormal heart rhythms (arrhythmias). The studies are performed in a special lab by an electrophysiologist (a cardiologist who specializes in studying and treating the electrical system of the heart), who works with a team of nurses and technologists.
What happens during an electrophysiology study?
Electrical signals make the muscles in your heart contract. Those contractions pump blood through your body. Serious problems can develop if the electrical signals are not flowing well through your heart. During an electrophysiology (EP) study, electrode wires are passed through a blood vessel and into your heart.
This electrode can record or create electrical activity. This can help find any problems with the flow of electricity in your heart and help you and your doctor decide whether you need medicine, a pacemaker, an implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD), cardiac ablation or surgery.
