Electrophysiology studies (EPS)

Electrophysiology studies use electrodes attached directly to the heart to collect detailed information on people with heart rhythm disorders, including those caused by heart valve defects, or on those whose electrocardiogram or other related tests rendered inconclusive results. These studies, which produce precise maps of the progression of electrical impulses through the heart, can be difficult to interpret and must be evaluated in light of all other medical information. Unlike the ECG, the electrophysiology study is an invasive procedure requiring heart catheterization.

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Electrophysiology studies may take as long as four hours and involve using a catheter to place electrodes directly on the heart. Once the electrodes are in place, the physician stimulates the heart with tiny electrical impulses that cannot be felt. However, the impulses may trigger the arrhythmia that is causing your symptoms. This allows the physician to see where the arrhythmias are occurring and may help explain what is causing the irregular heartbeat. During the study the physician can also evaluate potential treatments for your particular arrhythmia, including medications and pacing devices.

As with other catheterization procedures, electrophysiology studies carry risk. In general, less than 1 of every 100 people who undergo an electrophysiology study experiences a complication. These include bleeding, bruising, blood clot, or infection. There also is a small risk of a stroke or a tear in the lining of a blood vessel occurring during catheterization. In addition, the heart may develop a severely abnormal heart rhythm, including ventricular fibrillation. The medical team is trained and prepared for handling this emergency.