What is involved in an Electrophysiological Study and Catheter Ablation?
An EP study and catheter ablation may take one or more hours depending on the complexity. This may be performed under local anaesthetic and general sedation, or general anaesthetic for long cases.
Catheters and wires are inserted usually at the right groin via the vein or artery, and are advanced to the level of the heart. An X-ray machine guides the catheters inside the heart.
Electrodes at the tip of the catheters gather information about the electrical system of the heart, and how the heart chambers connect with each other. Various medications are given during the study and pacing manoeuvres are performed to try to bring on the abnormal heart rhythm. If an abnormal heart rhythm is observed during the study various electrical tests are performed to confirm the diagnosis.
Catheter ablation may also be performed during an EP study as a form of treatment. Various forms of energy may be delivered at the tip of the catheter to cause a specific area of heart tissue to become electrically inactive.
Following catheter ablation, patients usually stay overnight and go home the next day. However, if an EP study is negative and straightforward, patients may possibly go home on the same day.
When is an Electrophysiological Study and Catheter Ablation considered?
An EP study and catheter ablation may be considered in the diagnosis and treatment of various heart rhythm abnormalities when medical treatment is limited or has failed, or in patients who develop side effects to medications or do not wish to have life-long medications.