Electrophysiology Study with RF Ablation

An electrophysiology study (EPS), is a special type of heart catheterization which is done to study the heart's electrical system. The electrical system controls the heart's rhythm, including the rate and type of heart beat. An EPS is done when there is concern about a problem with the heart beat or rhythm. In simple terms, Electrophysiology study tests the electrical system of the heart.

 

Electrophysiology Study with Radiofrequency Ablation is done to disrupt part or all of an abnormal electrical pathway that is causing the arrhythmia (an abnormal heart rhythm). Energy is delivered through a catheter that is positioned close to the abnormal electrical pathway. The tip of the catheter heats up and creates a small scar so that the arrhythmia can no longer travel through that area and thus can no longer occur.

 

Once this has been successful, a 60-minute monitoring period begins. The procedure is considered successful when multiple attempts to induce an abnormal heart rhythm fail.

 

The Patient does not feel any pain, but he/she can have some back discomfort from lying on his/her back during the test. Once the procedure completes, all catheters are removed, and small bandages are placed on the catheter insertion sites.

 

The patient is then moved to a monitoring area (Post Anesthesia Care Unit or PACU) until he/she is fully awake.

 

In most cases, patients are discharged home from Same Day Surgery on the day of the procedure, though sometimes overnight observation in the hospital may be recommended.

 

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