Cardiac Electrophysiology Study: How the Test Works

As technology advances, so do treatment techniques. That applies to the body's most vital organ, the heart. One intervention proven effective against heart disorders is the electrophysiology intervention. Here is a closer look.

A Quick Look at Electrophysiology (EP)

Electrophysiology, better known as EP, is a test that assesses how a person's heart electrical system, or electrical activity, is working. The procedure is performed to diagnose an abnormal heartbeat, or arrhythmia, in a patient.

In this test, a catheter is inserted, followed by electrode wires. They can measure electrical activity through the blood vessels that lead into the heart. When a patient arrives at the hospital, several things must be done so the procedure goes properly.

For the patient's comfort, it is recommended to empty the bladder completely beforehand. A urinal or bedpan is then provided during the procedure, depending on how long the procedure you undergo will last. Sometimes a catheter can be inserted to drain the bladder.

After that, the electrophysiology procedure continues with other equipment. The doctor will use a small intravenous (IV) needle, which is inserted into a blood vessel in your arm. It is also used to give medication if needed.

How the Procedure Is Done

The EP procedure is performed in the hospital's electrophysiology laboratory. The patient is placed on an X-ray table. A camera and a television screen are then used to monitor the heart and the various instruments up close.

Next, electrodes are placed on the patient's chest and back to connect the body to monitoring equipment. A blood pressure cuff is then fitted on the upper arm to monitor your blood pressure.

To prevent infection and other risks, the nurse will shave and clean the patient's groin. The neck area is cleaned too when the catheter might be inserted there. It is important to clean these areas with antiseptic, and a sterile drape will cover the patient's body.

The patient can also find a comfortable position so they can stay still during the test. As a precaution, patients are advised not to touch the areas that have been sterilized, such as the neck and groin. Proper handling like this helps minimize infection and other problems.

Local anesthesia is given with a small needle to numb the area where the catheter goes in. That way, the patient does not feel the needle puncture of the electrophysiology procedure, though the needle may cause a stinging sensation for a few seconds.

This procedure is quite effective for treating a range of heart complaints and disorders. If you want the best care for your heart health, consider the Heartology clinic. With professional heart specialist doctors, every procedure is carried out correctly.

One cardiologist skilled in cardiac electrophysiology is Dr. Faris Basalamah, a specialist at Heartology. He has also taught at the Faculty of Medicine and Health at Universitas Muhammadiyah Jakarta since 2013. Book an appointment with Dr. Faris through this link and choose a schedule that suits you.