Electrophysiology Study (E.P.S.)

This is an examination intended to identify disturbances of the heart rhythm. The examination, performed by physicians who have been specialists in the field for decades, is considered to have a low level of risk and yields maximal results. In some instances, the rhythm disturbances can even be treated during the examination itself, thus avoiding the need for the patient to undergo additional medical procedures.

When is an electrophysiology study needed?

A person who experiences symptoms that could indicate heart rhythm disturbances will be referred for E.P.S. The symptoms that could indicate a disturbance of the heart rhythm is:

• More rapid/slow pulse than usual
• Chest pain
• Dizziness
• Nausea and fainting

The examination is performed to diagnose the presence and type of rhythm disturbance, and in certain cases, to also treat them at the same time.

How is the examination performed?

The examination is performed by a physician and takes several hours. The first stage is to inject anesthetic via a tube introduced in advance to a vein. Then, via the femoral vein in the patient’s thigh (usually), a thin tube or a number of tubes, as needed, are introduced, reaching the heart. This tube is called a catheter.

Many rhythm disturbances occur as the result of the erroneous electrical activity of the heart. The catheter functions as an electrode and records the electrical activity that occurs in the heart, thus helping to diagnose rhythm disturbances. In addition to the diagnostic function, the catheter can also perform a therapeutic procedure if needed, called ablation.

Is special preparation needed for this examination?

Yes. This is an invasive examination performed under anesthesia. The examination is performed after 6 hours of fasting. If the patient is taking any medicines, including non-prescription medicines, he must inform the treating physician of this several days before performing the examination. Also, the results of all relevant examination performed in the past should be brought.

Are there risks or side effects?

Electrophysiology study is very common, and the level of risk that it entails is defined as very low. Nevertheless, this is an invasive examination, and as such, it involves certain risks: infection, bleeding in the region where the catheter is inserted and damage to blood vessels that it traverses – but as mention above, the level of risk is very low. A rare side effect during the examination is a disturbance of the heart rhythm, but the medical staff is prepared in advance to deal with this.

After the examination

Rest, avoid exertion and remain under medical supervision. If everything goes well, the patient is released to his home the same day. Even if ablation is performed, the time until a normal routine is resumed is usually very short. In the event that problems are discovered during the examination that requires further treatment, the physician will give instructions in accordance with the nature of the treatment and the time at which it will be performed.