Electrophysiological Study (EPS)

An electrophysiological study (EPS) is a procedure that is performed to diagnose arrhythmias or abnormal heart rhythms. This procedure is used to determine the type and location of an arrhythmia. Examples of the types of arrhythmias that can be studied include atrial fibrillation, atrial flutter, atrial tachycardia, AV nodal reentrant tachycardia, Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome and ventricular tachycardia.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)

The information presented below is only for informational purposes. Your surgeon will talk to you about details regarding your specific procedure.

Who should have an electrophysiological study done?

Anyone that is concerned about symptoms that point to an arrhythmia should get an electrophysiological study done.

How is the study performed?

An electrophysiological study is a non-surgical procedure performed in the electrophysiology or EP laboratory. Before the test you will change into a hospital gown, have an IV placed in your arm and likely receive some medications to help you relax.

In the procedure room, you will lie down on the table and the areas in the neck and groin will be cleaned. You will then be covered with some sterile sheets and towels. A local anesthetic or numbing medication will be placed and then a number of intravenous tubes will be placed into some of the large veins leading to the heart. Through these IVs, small flexible wires called electrode catheters, will be used to record the electrical signals from the heart, and will be used as a pacemaker to control the heartbeat. Using this combination of recording and pacing it will be possible to identify the type of arrhythmia that you may have. It may also be possible to locate or map the source of the arrhythmia.

What will I need to do to prepare for the test?

You will be asked not to eat or drink anything for at least 6 to 8 hours prior to the procedure or after midnight. You can still take your normal medications unless you are instructed by the doctor not to do so. You should also tell the doctor about any allergies that you may have prior to the procedure.

What happens after the procedure?

You will be asked to lie flat for another 2-4 hours after the procedure. You should limit your activity for the first few days, avoid lifting anything, straining or exercising. However, you may still walk around.