What is an Electrophysiological Study?
An electrophysiological study (EPS) is a minimally invasive diagnostic procedure to study the electrical activity of the heart and determine which areas are responsible for causing an irregular heartbeat, or arrhythmia. The study is essential for determining which areas of the heart may need to be treated, or how well medication is working.
Why is an EPS Done?
An electrophysiology study is done to help Dr. Beshai determine which course of treatment is best for managing irregular heart activity. This will typically be performed after an ECG has detected an irregular heartbeat and can be used to determine the exact location of the tissue causing it. This is done to determine the best course of treatment, whether that’s medication, a pacemaker, a defibrillator, or cardiac ablation.
When is an Electrophysiological Study Needed?
Dr. Beshai may suggest an electrophysiological study if you experience symptoms of an irregular heartbeat such as:
- Fluttering heartbeat
- Heart murmur
- Rapid heartbeat
- Slow heartbeat
- Dizziness and fainting
- Weakness and fatigue
- Shortness of breath
An electrophysiological study is an essential part of determining where exactly abnormal tissue is present to ensure proper treatment. With early management, an electrophysiological study can prevent other heart-related problems related to an irregular heartbeat such as a blood clot, stroke, or heart attack.
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How is an Electrophysiological Study Performed?
An EP study will be performed with the use of general anesthesia or sedation for your comfort. An EPS is done through a vein, typically in the groin, but the neck or forearm can also be used in some cases. To perform the EP study, a needle will be inserted into the vein, and a thin tube will be placed through the needle. Catheters will then be threaded through the tube, each attached to an electrode tip, used to detect electrical impulses to the heart and record activity in various areas. During the EP study, Dr. Beshai will be looking for any abnormal tissue that could be causing an irregular heartbeat.
What are the Next Steps After an Electrophysiological Study?
After the EP study is conducted, you will be moved to a recovery room where your heart activity and blood pressure will be monitored. Patients are typically free to go home after 4-6 hours. Some soreness where the catheters were inserted can be expected. Depending on the results of the EP study, Dr. Beshai may recommend further testing or another procedure like cardiac ablation.
Schedule Your Electrophysiological Study Appointment
Dr. Beshai offers the electrophysiological study procedure to determine the cause of an irregular heartbeat and prevent complications that could come with it. When it comes to the heart, early screening and monitoring is essential, even if symptoms have not occurred yet. If you believe you could benefit from an EP study, contact our office and schedule your appointment at the Heart Rhythm Institute of Arizona.
The Heart Institute of Arizona has a wide array of services that come with our premium care. From in-office dianostics and treatable conditions, to hospital based procedures, we’ve got your heart covered.
Dr. Beshai is a board-certified electrophysiologist internationally renowned and respected for his expertise and research. Having published in major medical journals and travelled all over the world to present research, he is dedicated to providing innovative, state-of-the-art care to his patients.