Tests and procedures
Invasive electrophysiology study (EP study)
A study of the electrical signals inside the heart: a way to find where an arrhythmia starts and to choose treatment.
An invasive electrophysiology study (EP study) is a recording of the heart’s electrical signals using thin electrodes placed inside the heart.
It is done to find where an arrhythmia starts and to choose the most suitable treatment.
How the test works
Thin electrodes record electrical signals from inside the heart.
- CathetersThey are passed to the heart through a vein under X-ray guidance.
- ElectrodesThey record where the signal starts.
- Different areas of the heartSignals are recorded from several points at the same time.
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Why it is done
- to find the cause when there are signs of an arrhythmia;
- to find where a known arrhythmia starts;
- to choose treatment: to decide whether radiofrequency ablation, a pacemaker or an ICD is needed;
- to assess future risk, especially the risk of sudden cardiac arrest.
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How the study goes
The skin in the groin or neck is numbed, and the electrodes are passed through a vein to the heart under X-ray guidance. The person stays awake and is usually given a sedative. Pressure may be felt where the catheter is inserted, and the heart may sometimes beat fast. The study lasts from 1 hour to several hours. If needed, ablation or pacemaker implantation may be done at the same time.
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Preparation
Do not eat or drink for 6–8 hours beforehand. Do not change your medicines without agreeing it with your doctor. Come with someone who will take you home.
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Risks
The study is considered safe for most people, but arrhythmia, bleeding, a blood clot leading to embolism, cardiac tamponade (blood collecting around the heart and squeezing it), heart attack, infection, vein injury, a drop in blood pressure and stroke are possible. The doctor explains them at the appointment.
The exact procedure, price and preparation are agreed with the doctor or administrator at the appointment.
Other services in this area
All servicesECG
A test that records the heart’s electrical activity.
Learn moreHolter monitoring
Continuous recording of the heart rhythm over 24 hours.
Learn moreEP study and radiofrequency ablation (RFA)
Finding the source of an arrhythmia through a catheter and treating that small area: in supraventricular tachycardia and atrial fibrillation.
Learn more
Book this service
Invasive electrophysiology study (EP study)
+998 97 490 86 75Specialist
Sherzod Nasirovich Sabirov