Electrophysiology

During an electrophysiology study, following the administration of a local anesthetic, your physician guides wire electrodes via a catheter through a small incision (usually in the groin) and threads them up into specific areas in the heart to monitor electric impulses. Movement of the catheters through the body is closely monitored with fluoroscopy (a kind of x-ray) to minimize the chance of any injury. Blood pressure and oxygen levels are carefully observed throughout.
To gather as much information as possible, your doctor may also do the following:

• Initiate an electrical signal that slows or speeds up the heartbeat
• Administer medication that affects the speed of the heartbeat
• Record electrical activity in different parts of the heart

In some instances, a procedure called cardiac ablation is also performed during the study. This treatment involves creating scar tissue to pinpoint areas in the heart to address the arrhythmia and restore a normal heartbeat.
Electrophysiology studies typically take between one to four hours to complete. They are not painful but may produce some discomfort when medications or electrical signals are administered to slow or speed up the heartbeat. A sedative is often given to help patients remain relaxed during the procedure.
Once the study is complete and the catheters have been removed, the insertion area is bandaged tightly to prevent bleeding, and you will be transferred to a recovery area for observation.