Electrophysiology Study (EPS) - What is it for

What is an electrophysiology study?

An electrophysiology study (EPS) is a minimally invasive procedure that tests the electrical activity and the conduction system of your heart. This test is used to find out the cause of any rhythm disturbance to the heart and determine the best treatment.

Examples of when an EPS is useful include:

Determining the cause of an abnormal heart rhythm
Locating the site of origin of an abnormal heart rhythm
Deciding the optimal treatment for an abnormal heart rhythm
Determining conduction system disease.

Once the electrical activity is recorded and the study is complete, your doctor may decide the optimal treatment for your rhythm disturbance is medication. If so, he will end the procedure and you will be taken back to the ward soon after. In other cases, he or she may decide that catheter ablation is best. If so, your doctor will most likely proceed directly to perform catheter ablation.

Note that you can have an electrophysiology study (EPS) without needing a catheter ablation, if your doctor determines that it is not needed.

Electrophysiology Study (EPS) - Symptoms

Electrophysiology Study (EPS) - How to prevent?

Electrophysiology Study (EPS) - Causes and Risk Factors

Risk Factors

As with any invasive procedure, there are risks. However, the risks associated with EPS are low, often 1% or less of a serious complication.

Your doctor will discuss the risks involved in your particular case with you before the procedure. If you have any questions, be sure to ask prior to the EPS.

Electrophysiology Study (EPS) - Diagnosis

Electrophysiology Study (EPS) - Treatments

Electrophysiology Study (EPS) - Preparing for surgery

Electrophysiology Study (EPS) - Post-surgery care

What can I expect immediately after the EPS procedure?

You will return from the Electrophysiology Laboratory with a pressure dressing over your groin.

If you have any pain, please inform your nurse so you can be given enough painkillers.

You will be asked to remain in bed and to rest for 4 to 6 hours after the procedure. Your nurse will take regular measurements of your pulse and blood pressure during this time.

After that, and once the staff are satisfied that the groin site will no longer bleed, the pressure dressing will be removed.

Discharge times varies, but is often the following day unless you need to take warfarin (a medication to thin your blood) - in that case, your hospital stay may be prolonged by a few days to ensure that your blood is sufficiently thinned out. (Measuring the INR level).

How will I feel after the procedure?

You may feel fatigue or chest discomfort during the first 48 hours after the procedure. Please tell your doctor or nurse if any of these symptoms are prolonged or severe. You may experience skipped heartbeats or short episodes of atrial fibrillation after the procedure. After your heart has healed, these abnormal heartbeats should subside.

Are there any special precautions I must take after the procedure?

Generally, recovery after EPS is very fast. We normally advise avoidance of heavy lifting (>10 pounds) for the first 10 days while your the groin puncture site heals.

You should expect to resume normal activities by 2 weeks, unless your doctor advises you specifically otherwise.

What happens about medications?

Depending on the procedure and your circumstances, you may be asked to continue taking certain medications. Your doctor will advise you on the appropriate medications to take.

When will my doctor see me again after discharge?

Depending on the abnormal rhythm and the procedure performed, your next appointment with your doctor may range from one week to 3 months post-discharge. Your doctor will arrange follow-up prior to your discharge.