If a patient is having an EP Study he/she will probably be admitted to the hospital, possibly as an outpatient.

The patient will undergo several routine lab tests, as well as an electrocardiogram and blood tests.

Initially, the patient will be seen by the doctor in our office before the procedure is scheduled. During this office appointment the doctor will review medical history and conduct a basic examination.

Before the procedure the doctor will explain its purpose, all possible benefits, and risks associated. As a patient, it is good to ask any questions or concerns regarding the EP Study. The final process is to sign a consent form.

Before the EP Study:

• Patient should not eat or drink anything for 6 to 8 hours before this procedure.
• Make arrangements with a family member or friend to drive patient to the hospital.
• The doctor may ask the patient to stop taking certain medications before the procedure. If so, cease medication two or three days before the procedure so the doctor can receive more accurate test results. Do not cease medications, until properly notified by doctor.
• Be sure to bring a listing of all current medications, because the doctor will need to know exact names and dosages for each.
• It is important the patient mention to the doctor any allergic reactions he/she may have to any medications.

The EP Study will be done in the EP lab (cath lab).

When the patient is in the EP lab he/she will be placed on an x-ray table. There is a large camera located above the table, as well as television screens nearby. While on the x-ray table the patient will then be connected to monitors, and covered with sterilized sheets.

Staff in EP lab:
The staff in the EP lab consists of an electrophysiologist (specialized cardiologist), an assistant, nurses, and some technicians. The staff will be wearing sterile gowns and gloves.

During the EP Study:
Catheters, which are long flexible wires that can conduct electrical impulses to and from the heart, will be inserted in eith the groin, arm, chest, or neck. One or more of these catheters are inserted into the body towards the heart.

The staff will follow the procedure ont he television screen. The doctor will then position the catheter in the proper place in the heart.

How the EP Study is Done:
To record electrical signals and pace the heart doctors use electrode catheters. These catheters can sense the electrical activity of the heart, as well as measuring the various impulses.
The heart is pace din order to observe any abnormal rhythms under controlled conditions.

Length of EP Study:
An EP Study can be quite long, depending on the type of arrhythmia. It can often last from two to six hours.

All catheters are removed after the EP procedure is completed.

The patient will then be transported to the recovery room where he/she will lie flat in bed for 6 to 8 hours to allow the blood vessel to heal properly.

The pulse and blood pressure will be checked on a regular basis, as well as the sites where the catheters are inserted.

At Home, After the EP Study:

• The patient should limit his/her activity after the procedure. Do not lift any heavy objects 24 hours after returning home.
• Keep the dressing on area until the day after the procedure. The nurse or doctor will inform you on how to remove it and when it is okay to take a shower.
• Check with the nurse or doctor concerning which medications to continue or stop.