What is an EP study with ablation?
What is an electrophysiology study and catheter ablation? An electrophysiology study is a test to measure the electrical activity of the heart and to diagnose arrhythmia or abnormal heart rhythms. Catheter ablation is a procedure performed to treat some types of arrhythmia.
How long does an EP study with ablation take?
Perform cardiac ablation. An EP study doesn’t hurt, but you may feel uncomfortable as your heartbeat speeds up or slows down. Tell your care providers if you feel any pain. An EP study can take one to four hours. Your test may last longer if you also have cardiac ablation.
Why would a patient undergo an electrophysiology study?
An electrophysiological study (EP study) is a test used to evaluate your heart’s electrical system and to check for abnormal heart rhythms. Natural electrical impulses coordinate contractions of the different parts of the heart. This helps keep blood flowing the way it should.
What is a VT ablation?
Ventricular tachycardia (VT) ablation uses cold or heat energy to create tiny scars in the heart to block faulty signals that cause a rapid, erratic heartbeat. Ventricular tachycardia occurs when the heart’s electrical signals cause the lower heart chambers (ventricles) to beat too quickly.
What happens during an EP study?
An electrophysiology (EP) study is a test performed to assess your heart’s electrical system or activity and is used to diagnose abnormal heartbeats or arrhythmia. The test is performed by inserting catheters and then wire electrodes, which measure electrical activity, through blood vessels that enter the heart.
What happens in an EP study?
Can I drive after EP study?
After an electrophysiological study – please do not drive for 24 hours. After a catheter ablation – we advise that you do not drive for one week.
Is the heart stopped during cardiac ablation?
Catheter ablation is a non-surgical procedure that uses thin, flexible tubes called catheters to reach inside the heart. It does not require a general anesthetic or stopping the heart.