Electrophysiology

Electrophysiologists are cardiologists who diagnose and treat abnormal heart rhythms. Electrophysiologists determine whether an individual is in a group that is at high risk for sudden cardiac arrest or cardiovascular diseases.

An electrophysiology study is a test that can help predict if an individual is at high risk for sudden cardiac arrest. In sudden cardiac arrest, the heart abruptly and unexpectedly ceases to function. It is an electrical problem caused by a heart rhythm disorder called Ventricular Fibrillation. In sudden cardiac arrest, the heart is no longer able to pump blood to the rest of the body.

During the study, the physician studies the speed and flow of electrical signals through the heart, identifies rhythm problems and pinpoints areas in the heart's muscle that give rise to abnormal electrical signals. Signals are administered to the heart muscle in patterns to see if they will stimulate ventricular tachycardia. The test is performed in a safe and controlled electrophysiology laboratory.

An electrophysiology study can:

• Identify which patients have had a prior heart attack,  and identify who would be at risk for serious ventricular arrhythmias and sudden cardiac arrest.
• Help determine which patients may require aggressive treatment to prevent sudden cardiac arrest.
• Identify individuals whose hearts cannot be induced into dangerous arrhythmias. They appear at lower risk for developing spontaneous, sustained VT that can lead to ventricular fibrillation and sudden cardiac arrest.