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.
During an EP study, your doctor inserts small, thin wire electrodes into a vein in the groin (or neck, in some cases). He or she will then thread the wire electrodes through the vein and into the heart. To do this, he or she uses a special type of X-ray “movie,” called fluoroscopy.
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.
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.
You will probably be awake during the procedure. But you might be asleep. The doctor will give you medicines to help you feel relaxed and to numb the areas where the catheters go in. An EP study and ablation can take 2 to 6 hours.