What are Electrophysiological Tests (EPS)?

Why do I need this test?

Electrophysiologic tests are taken to find out why your heart is not beating in a regular way. These tests study the electrical flow in your heart.

EPS takes place in a catheterization laboratory, and during EPS, your heart rhythm is closely monitored from inside the heart. Any changes, including those that are triggered during EPS are studied. EPS can help determine exactly what your rhythm problem is and what can be done to control it. A specially trained doctor (electrophysiologist) performs the test.

What is arrhythmia?

• Arrhythmia is when your heart beats too fast, too slow or irregularly.
• Your body may not get the blood it needs.
• Your heart feels like it flutters.
• You may get dizzy or weak.

What is cardiac mapping?

• An electrophysiologic test that maps out the electrical system of the heart.
• It tells your doctor what part of the heart isn’t working right.

How is it done?

• The test will be done in the heart catheterization Laboratory or “cath lab”.
• You will be awake during the test but may be given medicine to help you relax.
• The test may take several hours.
• A thin tube or catheter is inserted into veins (in the groin, neck, chest, arm or wrist) and the catheter is moved to find the problem area in your heart.
• The tips of the catheters are like sensors and can tell the doctor why the heart isn’t beating with the right rhythm.

What is cardiac ablation?

• Cardiac ablation is a way to fix an arrhythmia and get your heart to beat the right way. Catheter ablation destroys (ablates) an abnormal electrical pathway or group of electrical cells that may be causing an arrhythmia.
• This procedure is often done during or after an EPS.
• One or more catheters are put in one or more veins.
• On the end of the catheter is a tip that will destroy the part of the heart that’s causing the abnormal rhythm.
• Now your heart should return to a normal rhythm.

What happens Afterwards?

• The catheters will be taken out.
• Pressure will be applied to the punctured spots for 15 to 30 minutes to make sure there is no bleeding.
• You’ll be asked to lie quietly on your back for several hours.
• Your doctor will talk to you about the results.

Getting on with your life

Electrophysiology studies can give your doctor the information needed to develop the best treatment plan for your arrhythmia. Once your abnormal heart rhythm is under control, you can get on with living your life to the fullest.

Disclaimer
Reviewed by Alberta clinical experts. Brought to you by HealthLink Alberta. Copyright.
This material is designed for information purposes only. It should not be used in place of medical advice, instruction and/or treatment. For more health advice call Capital Health Link at 780-408-LINK (5465) 24 hours a day, seven days a week. In Alberta, call Toll-free: 1-866-408-LINK (5465)