Intracardiac electrophysiolog... Health Article

Definition

Intracardiac electrophysiology study (EPS) is a test that allows doctors to determine the details of abnormal heartbeats, or arrhythmias.

Alternative Names

Electrophysiology study - intracardiac; EPS - intracardiac

How the test is performed

The study involves placing wire electrodes within the heart to measure electrical activity along the heart's conduction system and within heart muscle cells themselves.

The procedure is done in a hospital laboratory by a trained staff that includes cardiologists, technicians, and nurses. The environment is safe and controlled to minimize any danger or risk to the patient.

A health care provider will clean your groin area and apply a numbing medication (anesthetic). The cardiologist makes a small surgical cut into the groin area and inserts a thin tube (catheter) into a vein. This catheter holds the electrodes, which are connected to special monitors.

The doctor uses moving x-ray images to carefully guide the catheter up into the heart and place the electrodes into the proper areas.

The electrodes detect the heart's electrical activity and map out any irregular heartbeats. This helps the doctor see the type of arrhythmia you have and where the problem starts in your heart. Abnormal electrical activity can occur anywhere along this heart's conduction system. Normally, the heart's electrical signals move through the the two chambers on the top of the heart (the atria), to the atrioventricular (AV) node, and then to the lower chambers of the heart (the ventricles).

How to prepare for the test

Test preparations are similar to those for a cardiac catheterization. Food and fluid will be restricted for 6 - 8 hours before the test. The procedure will take place in a hospital, and you will wear hospital clothing. You must sign a consent form for the procedure.

Your health care provider will give you instructions regarding any changes to your normal medications. Do not stop taking or change any medications without consulting your health care provider.

A mild sedative is usually given 30 minutes before the procedure. You may not be able to drive home yourself if you are discharged the same day.

How the test will feel

During the test, you will be awake and able to follow instructions.

A simple EPS generally lasts from 20 minutes to 1 hour. It may take longer if other procedures are involved.