Cardiac Ablation
What are Cardiac Electrophysiology studies?
The study of the heart's electrical system is known as an
electrophysiology. Electrophysiology (EP) studies are performed to
diagnose arrhythmias, or abnormal heart rates, by locating small areas
of abnormal heart tissue that interrupt the heart's normal electrical
system
During an EP study, the cardiologist inserts several special long,
flexible tubes with wires-called electrode catheters-into the heart.
The electrical activity of the heart is then examined and the
conduction properties of the nerves in the heart are measured. The
second part of this test involves electrical stimulation of various
parts of the heart in an attempt to induce an abnormal heart rhythm.
Identification of this abnormal rhythm allows specific treatment to be
tailored towards this.
How is Electrophysiology study done?
The procedure is done by a trained Electro physiologist in the Cardiac Catheterization lab. .
A small incision is made usually in the groin or neck area through
which an ablation or electrode catheter, is inserted.
One or more diagnostic catheters are inserted into the blood vessel and
gently moved toward the heart. Diagnostic catheters are used to sense
electrical activity in various areas of the heart and to measure where
and how fast these impulses travel. These catheters are also used to
deliver tiny electrical impulses to stimulate the heart to beat or
contract. By doing this, physicians attempt to start (or induce) your
arrhythmia so they can understand more about it and decide how best to
treat it.
Most EP studies are completed within two hours. If the physician
decides to continue and attempt to correct the arrhythmia, though, a
complete procedure can last up to six hours or more.
What is the after care and how long does it take to recover?
The catheters are removed and firm pressure is applied at the catheter
insertion sites for several minutes in to prevent bleeding, and a
dressing is applied. The patient is then taken to recovery room where
he/ she is kept under observation for some time. Sometimes the patient
is allowed to go home on the day of the procedure, but sometimes
overnight stay in the hospital is required. After return to home, all
vigorous physical exertion and strain (such as lifting heavy objects)
should be avoided for two - three weeks. The patient normally returns
to routine activities within two- three weeks after the procedure.
What are the risks associated with EP study?
There are very
rare possibilities of any complication. Most patients who undergo EP
studies do not experience any complication. There are bleak possibility
of any risk which might include bleeding, swelling, or bruising where
the catheters were inserted. Serious complications do sometimes occur.
These include infection, damage to the heart and/or blood vessels, and
blood clots.
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