Electrophysiology Study (EPS)

    • Purpose: Diagnoses and treats abnormal heart rhythms.
    • Procedure: Catheters with electrodes are inserted into the heart to map its electrical activity.
    • Note: The information provided here applies to elective Electrophysiology Studies (EPS) without extraordinary circumstances. However, the specifics may vary depending on individual patient factors, such as the complexity of the heart rhythm disorder being investigated, underlying heart conditions, or any complications that might arise during the procedure. In some cases, additional interventions like catheter ablation might be performed during the same session.

      Inpatient/Outpatient
      EPS is often performed as an inpatient procedure, especially when there is a higher risk of complications or when additional procedures, such as catheter ablation, are planned to treat the detected arrhythmias. Patients may need to stay in the hospital for observation after the study to ensure their heart rhythm remains stable.

      Hospital Stay Duration
      Most patients undergoing EPS are monitored for several hours after the procedure. Depending on the findings and whether additional interventions are performed, a hospital stay of one night or more may be required to monitor heart rhythm stability and manage any immediate post-procedure effects.

      Type of Anesthesia
      EPS is typically performed under local anesthesia at the catheter insertion sites, with mild sedation provided to keep the patient comfortable. In some cases, general anesthesia may be used, particularly if the patient requires additional interventions during the procedure or if the patient’s condition necessitates it.

      Travel After Procedure
      Patients are usually advised to avoid travel for at least 24 hours after EPS, particularly if sedation was used. Depending on the patient’s recovery and whether any additional treatments were performed, longer travel, including flights, may be postponed for a few days.

      Pre-procedure Preparation
      Patients are generally instructed to fast for several hours before EPS. They may also need to temporarily stop certain medications, particularly those that affect heart rhythm, as directed by their healthcare provider to ensure accurate test results.

      Procedure Duration
      The duration of an EPS can vary, typically lasting between 1 to 4 hours depending on the complexity of the heart rhythm disorder being studied and whether any additional procedures, like catheter ablation, are performed.

      Recovery Time
      Most patients can resume light activities within a day or two after EPS, although full recovery may take a few days depending on the patient’s overall condition and the extent of the procedure. Patients should follow their healthcare provider’s recommendations regarding activity levels post-procedure.

      Estimated Cost
      The cost of EPS can vary depending on the hospital, geographic location, and whether additional treatments, such as catheter ablation, are required during the procedure. For specific pricing details, patients should contact their healthcare provider.

      Post-procedure Care
      Post-procedure care includes monitoring the catheter insertion sites for any signs of bleeding, swelling, or infection. Patients will also need to follow up with their healthcare provider to discuss the results of the study and any necessary changes to their treatment plan, including medications or further procedures.