Cardiac Electrophysiology Study

A cardiac electrophysiology (EP) study is a medical procedure designed to assess the heart's electrical activity. It helps doctors diagnose and evaluate arrhythmias, which are irregular heart rhythms.  

During the procedure, small catheters with electrodes are inserted into blood vessels, typically through the groin or neck, and guided to the heart. These electrodes record the heart's electrical signals, enabling doctors to identify the location and type of abnormal rhythm.  

The procedure usually takes place in a hospital equipped with specialized tools. It is often performed under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthetic to ensure patient comfort. 

An EP study can serve several important purposes:  

1. Diagnosis: It helps determine the cause and type of arrhythmia. 
2. Treatment Planning: The findings can assist doctors in deciding on necessary treatments, such as medications, procedures like catheter ablation, or the implantation of devices like pacemakers. 
3. Mapping and Ablation: If a specific abnormal rhythm is identified, the doctor may use the study to map the problematic area in the heart and perform an ablation. This procedure destroys the tissue responsible for the arrhythmia.