What Happens During an Electrophysiology Study?
What Happens During an Electrophysiology Study?
What's This About?
Electrophysiology studies can help diagnose and treat heart arrhythmias. Find out what happens during this procedure and why it's important.
Contents
- Purpose of the Procedure
- What to Expect During EPS
- Post-Procedure Care
Purpose of the Procedure
An electrophysiology study (EPS) is a test that examines the heart's electrical system to diagnose abnormal heart rhythms. It helps pinpoint the origin of arrhythmias, guiding treatment decisions such as medication or catheter ablation. EPS is crucial for athletes with unexplained symptoms or documented arrhythmias.
What to Expect During EPS
During the procedure, thin wires are inserted through a vein in the groin and threaded to the heart. These wires measure the heart's electrical signals, allowing doctors to study any irregularities. The procedure is minimally invasive and usually takes a few hours, with recovery time varying based on the individual.
Post-Procedure Care
After an EPS, patients may need to rest and avoid strenuous activities for a short period. Follow-up appointments are essential to ensure the heart is responding well to any treatments initiated. Athletes can often return to their activities once cleared by their healthcare provider.
FAQs
What is an EPS?
It's a test to study the heart's electrical system and diagnose arrhythmias.
Is EPS painful?
The procedure is generally not painful, as it's minimally invasive.
How long does an EPS take?
It typically takes a few hours, but this can vary.
Can athletes return to sports after EPS?
Most athletes can return after recovery and clearance from their doctor.
Why is EPS important?
It helps diagnose and treat heart arrhythmias, ensuring safe heart function.
Wrapping Up
EPS is a valuable tool in diagnosing and managing heart arrhythmias, especially for athletes.
Additional References
- Maron BJ, Udelson JE, Bonow RO, et al. Eligibility and Disqualification Recommendations for Competitive Athletes With Cardiovascular Abnormalities: Task Force 3: Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy, Arrhythmogenic Right Ventricular Cardiomyopathy and Other Cardiomyopathies, and Myocarditis: A Scientific Statement From the American Heart Association and American College of Cardiology. J Am Coll Cardiol 2015; 66:2362.
- Ackerman MJ, Zipes DP, Kovacs RJ, Maron BJ. Eligibility and Disqualification Recommendations for Competitive Athletes With Cardiovascular Abnormalities: Task Force 10: The Cardiac Channelopathies: A Scientific Statement From the American Heart Association and American College of Cardiology. J Am Coll Cardiol 2015; 66:2424.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic.