Electrophysiology Study

Purpose

An electrophysiology study is a test of the electrical conduction system of the heart that makes it possible to examine a patient’s arrhythmia under controlled circumstances. A series of wires are inserted into a vein in the patient’s groin (the most commonly used site), neck, or shoulder and guided by the use of X-ray to different sites in the heart. These wires can record signals and deliver small electrical impulses to stimulate areas within the heart.

Electrophysiology procedures are conducted in the Electrophysiology Laboratory of the Heart Institute.

Description

1. The doctor explains the procedure, outlining for the patient and family members its potential benefits, risks, and complications, and asks the patient to provide informed consent. The test cannot be conducted without this consent.
2. The area through which the wires are inserted is cleansed with cold iodine solution and covered with sterile drapes.
3. Prior to the insertion of the wires, the doctor freezes the site with a local anesthetic. The patient will feel a slight pressure in the groin area and will possibly experience heart palpitations during wire insertion.
4. Electrodes are attached to the chest to monitor the patient’s heart rate and rhythm during the procedure.
5. An intravenous (IV) line and monitoring devices are put in position.
6. An X-ray camera is used to position the wires.
7. The doctor tests the heart's electrical activity. While this is happening, the patient may experience heart rate changes and palpitations.
8. A diagnostic electrophysiology study takes approximately one to two hours. If a catheter ablation is performed immediately afterwards, the procedure may take an additional one to four hours.
9. Upon completion of testing, the wires are removed and pressure is applied to the site of insertion for five to 10 minutes.
10. The patient is monitored and required to rest for approximately four hours before going home.

Patient Instructions

It is important for the doctor to know the exact names, dosages, and times of any medicines that the patient is taking. There may be a need to discontinue one or more medications several days before admission to the hospital. The patient should inform the doctor if he or she is allergic to anything (especially medicines).

The patient should not eat or drink after midnight the day prior to the test, unless otherwise indicated.