Cardiac Electrophysiology & RFA

What is an Electrophysiological Study (EPS)?

An electrophysiological study is a test that measures the electrical activity of the heart and is used to diagnose arrhythmia, or irregular heart rhythms. It can provide more detailed data than an external electrocardiogram (ECG). It entails inserting a fine tube called a catheter into the heart through a blood vessel (vein or artery) in the groin. The catheter’s tip has a special electrode tip that stimulates the heart and records the electrical activity, allowing the doctor to pinpoint the source of any abnormalities.

What is a Radio Frequency Ablation (RFA)?

Radiofrequency ablation is a treatment used to control or correct an irregular heartbeat. It is usually done immediately after the EPS or on a separate occasion. It is performed like an electrophysiological study (EPS), with catheters inserted into the heart through the groin. The radiofrequency energy (heat) is then used to destroy the small area in the heart that is causing the abnormal electrical activity.

Why do I need an EPS and RFA?

You will most likely have been experiencing palpitations or a racing heartbeat, which can be quite distressing for some people. This is because the electrical conduction system in the heart can sometimes travel in a different direction due to extra electrical connections known as “pathways” or extra electrical cells within the heart. These pathways are frequently present at birth but may not cause symptoms until adulthood. When the heart has an extra beat (an ectopic beat), it can travel up the pathway and down the normal conduction system. If this continues, palpitations may occur. This means that the heart suddenly begins to race, causing the awareness of a fast heartbeat.

SVT, or supraventricular tachycardia, refers to an abnormal heart rhythm that originates in the upper chambers of the heart. This type of heart rhythm disturbance is not fatal, but it can cause unpleasant symptoms and impair your quality of life. If the abnormal heart rhythm originates in the lower pumping chambers of the heart (the ventricles), it is known as VT, or ventricular tachycardia, and it can be dangerous, especially if it is accompanied by fainting.

Can there be any complications or risks?

These procedures have some risks associated with them. Your doctor will explain everything to you before you consent to the procedure. Groin bruising is the most common complication, which is usually not a cause for concern.

There is a slight chance that RFA will harm the heart’s normal electrical pathways. If this happens, you might require a pacemaker. Before agreeing to the procedure, you should thoroughly discuss these concerns with your cardiologist.

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