Electrophysiology

Cardiac Electrophysiology: What is it?

Cardiac electrophysiology is a specialized branch of cardiology that deals with the diagnosis and treatment of arrhythmias, i.e. heart rhythm abnormalities, and the implantation of devices such as pacemakers, implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs), resynchronization devices; these devices help to regulate the heart rhythm and prevent episodes of ventricular tachycardia or ventricular fibrillation. Through electrophysiologic studies and cardiac ablation procedures, electrophysiologists can identify and correct electrical problems of the heart.

The benefits of cardiac electrophysiology:

• Accurately identify the source of arrhythmias and assess their severity.
• Cardiac ablation procedures are minimally invasive, reducing recovery time and associated risks.

At CorePrime Bucharest we offer advanced services with electrophysiology specialists to ensure our patients the best possible results.

Electrophysiologic Study and Cardiac Ablation

The electrophysiology study (EFS) is a minimally invasive procedure that involves inserting thin catheters through veins and arteries to the heart to measure electrical activity. This procedure helps identify the source of arrhythmias and assess their severity.

Cardiac ablation is a therapeutic procedure used to treat arrhythmias by destroying the abnormal heart tissue that causes irregular heart rhythms. The procedure can be performed by thermal (radiofrequency ablation) or cryotherapy (cryoballoon ablation) methods.

In severe cases of arrhythmias, devices such as pacemakers and implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs) can be implanted to regulate heart rhythm and prevent episodes of ventricular tachycardia or ventricular fibrillation.

Before undergoing an electrophysiology procedure, patients will undergo a series of preoperative evaluations, including blood tests and electrocardiograms. These evaluations are essential to ensure the safety and success of the procedure.

Electrophysiology: FAQs

How are cardiac electrophysiology procedures performed?

Cardiac electrophysiology procedures, such as electrophysiology studies and cardiac ablation, are performed in a specialized laboratory, where cardiologists use advanced equipment to monitor and treat heart rhythm problems.

During the electrophysiology study, catheters are inserted through the femoral veins or arteries and guided to the heart using advanced imaging (angiography - X-ray machine). The electrical activity of the heart is then recorded to identify arrhythmias. If ablation is needed, the abnormal tissues causing the arrhythmia are ablated using thermal energy or cryotherapy without damaging the surrounding healthy tissue.

How long does recovery take after electrophysiology procedures?

Recovery after electrophysiology procedures is usually rapid. It is recommended that patients avoid strenuous physical exertion for a few days and follow their doctor's instructions.

How long does a cardiac ablation procedure take?

The duration of a cardiac ablation procedure can vary from 2 to 4 hours, depending on the complexity of the case and the type of ablation used.

Is general anesthesia needed for these procedures?

Most electrophysiology procedures are performed under light sedation and local anesthesia, allowing patients to be conscious but comfortable.