Electrophysiology

Why is electrophysiology done?

An electrophysiology study is conducted by the doctor to analyze the electrical signals that move all over the heart. Electrophysiology is generally conducted when the patient:

• Has an irregular heart rhythm: If the patient has an irregular heartbeat, conducting this study can help decide the best course of treatment. The medical terminology for irregular or fast heartbeat is known as arrhythmia.
• Has fainted: If the patient faints due to any reason, electrophysiology can help the healthcare team determine the exact cause.
• Is at risk of cardiac death: If the patient suffers from any heart illness, an electrophysiology study can help reduce the risk of cardiac death.

What tests or diagnostic procedures are conducted before the electrophysiology test?

In this test, the healthcare provider places electrodes ( plastic patches) on the skin to measure the heart rhythm. Some of the tests conducted before the electrophysiology test include:

• Cardiac mapping: This diagnostic test is typically performed to know which part of the heart requires ablation. Ablation is a process to destroy or remove a body part, or tissue that is causing trouble in the body.
• Exercise Tolerance Test: An exercise tolerance test or stress test measures the performance of the heart at the time of a physical activity. In this procedure, the patient walks on a treadmill, and simultaneously, his/her heart rate and blood pressure are measured.
• Intracardiac electrogram: Intracardiac electrogram measures the electrical activity of the heart. In this test, electrodes are placed inside the heart chambers to evaluate its electrical motion. It helps diagnose and treat various heart conditions like atrial fibrillation and ventricular tachycardia.
• Echocardiogram: In this test, ultrasound is utilized to form images of the heart. During this test, a transducer is stationed on the chest to produce sound waves that bounce off the structures of the heart. This helps create images of the heart that are displayed on a monitor to evaluate any irregularities.

What happens during an electrophysiology procedure?

Once you are on the X-ray table, the doctor will give you an intravenous (IV) sedative to make you comfortable. After that, electrodes will be positioned on your chest to help you connect to the monitoring equipment.

Local anesthesia will be given to numb the site where the catheter will be inserted. The doctor will then insert catheters into the blood vessels in the neck or groin region and guide them into the heart. Multiple catheters with electrodes are normally inserted to gauge the heart's electrical activity.

If you are suffering from arrhythmia ( irregular heartbeat), your healthcare provider will incite specific arrhythmia by using certain medicines to know the source of the condition. If the source is identified, ablation will be performed to destroy the abnormal tissue. Throughout the electrophysiology procedure, your oxygen levels and heart rhythm will be observed by your healthcare team. Once the procedure is completed, the doctor will remove the catheter. To prevent unnecessary bleeding, the doctor might apply pressure to the insertion area before putting a bandage. The entire procedure of electrophysiology takes around 4 hours.

How to prepare for electrophysiology procedure?

Here are some ways to help you prepare for the electrophysiology procedure:

• Always tell your complete medical history to the doctor before the procedure. Convey the medications you take, conditions you are suffering at the present moment, and allergies to your healthcare provider.
• Be informed of the complete procedure you are undergoing. Ask your healthcare provider about the procedure, its purpose, risks, and advantages.
• Before the procedure, discuss with your doctor about the medications you should consume. Also, consult if you need to stop taking specific medicines for 2 to 3 days before the procedure.
• Your healthcare team might advise you to avoid eating or drinking anything for 8 to 10 hours before the procedure. Ensure you follow the instructions given in this regard.
• Be prepared for certain diagnostic tests before the electrophysiology procedure. Your healthcare team might conduct certain tests like electrocardiogram (ECG) and cardiac mapping to evaluate the tissue causing trouble in the body and the heart's condition.

What are the recovery tips to follow after an electrophysiology procedure?

It is important to follow certain steps after your electrophysiology study to minimize complications after the procedure and enhance your recovery period. Some of the crucial steps to follow in your recovery period include:

• Take sufficient rest once you are home after the procedure.
• Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activities for at least a week. Also, avoid driving for at least two days after your electrophysiology procedure.
• You can remove the bandage placed on your catheter site on the first day after your procedure. However, be careful while removing it.
• You may take a bath after you return home from the procedure.
• If you see any symptoms of infection after the procedure or any heartbeat changes, consult your healthcare provider instantly.
• Bruising at the insertion site is quite normal after the procedure. However, if it leads to unbearable pain, contact your doctor immediately.