ELECTROPHYSIOLOGICAL STUDIES
An electro-physiological study is a test of the electrical system of the heart. It is performed in
hospital in a catheter laboratory under local anaesthetic and sedation.
A thin tube is placed in the vein in the groin and fed up towards the heart. The heart is
examined for any evidence of abnormal electrical pathways or a tendency to slow heart beats or
racing heart.
It could be performed for symptoms of palpitations or black outs.
Sometimes as part of this procedure more specialised treatment options may be undertaken
depending on the results of the testing. These include ablation of abnormal electrical pathways
or the implantation of a pacemaker.
Preparing for the Procedure – What do you need to do?
You will need to fast for six hours prior to the procedure. You will be asked to arrive at
hospital on the day of the procedure. Medications should be taken as directed by your
physician. Blood thinning medications may need to be withheld before the procedure.
You may also be asked to stop any heart rhythm medication several days prior to the
procedure.
Possible Complications And Risk
Bleeding may occur. Abnormal heart rhythms may also surface, requiring other
treatments such as cardioversion or pace makers. Rarely, surgery may be required.
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After the Procedure
You will be discharged from the hospital on the day of the procedure. You will have some
bruising in the groin and you will be asked to reduce your physical activity for 24 to 48
hours.
Follow-up Care
You will be asked to make an appointment for a short revisit with Dr Flood so that he can
go through the results of the test with you. He will also write a letter to your GP
highlighting the outcomes of the test.
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