The Electrophysiologic Study One of the key procedures commonly employed is the electrophysiologic study. This is a procedure where intravenous catheters are placed, usually from the vein in the groin area, so that they can be advanced into the right side of the heart. In the right side of the heart, recordings can be made that give a very clear picture of the normal sequence of electrical activation within the heart. In addition, the heart can be stimulated in a variety of ways in an attempt to elicit abnormal rhythms if they exist. Among the abnormal responses can be the induction of rapid heart rhythms that can give important information regarding arrhythmia mechanism, prognosis, risk of serious symptoms, response to medications, etc.

"An Outpatient Procedure" The procedure produces results that can be analyzed either during the study or within minutes of its completion. It typically lasts between 1 and 2 hours. In most cases it involves mild sedation only. Because it is only an intravenous procedure, involving punctures that are similar to typical IVs, there is only a short period of time after the procedure that the patient must remain at bed rest. It can commonly be done in the out-patient setting unless the patient has risks of serious arrhythmias or is ill in another way. Want More Detail? Are you scheduled to have an EP study? Follow the link below for a step-by-step description of the procedure. Step-by-Step EP Study description If you have any questions or concerns about this site, please contact webmaster@docnet.org.