Electrophysiology testing makes it possible to study heart rhythm disturbances under controlled circumstances. By using special insulated wires called catheters, the doctor is able to identify rhythm disturbance and choose the best method of treatment. Intravenous catheters are placed, usually from the vein in the groin area, so that they can be advanced into the right side of the heart. In the right side of the heart, recordings can be made that give a very clear picture of the normal sequence of electrical activation within the heart.

In addition, the heart can be stimulated in a variety of ways in an attempt to elicit abnormal rhythms if they exist. After the catheters are in position, the doctor will evaluate the heart rhythm disturbance by giving the heart small electrical impulses (by artificial pacemaker through one of the catheters) to make it beat at different rates. This offers important information regarding arrhythmia mechanism, prognosis, risk of serious symptoms, response to medications, etc.

Among its many excellent electrophysiology services, Continuum Heart Institute features the Siemens’ Room—an electrophysiology lab dedicated to the electrical study of the heart. The Siemens’ Room is one of the few EP labs in the area equipped for biplane imaging. Biplane imaging maps the heart simultaneously from two different directions. This sophisticated digital technology allows physicians to perform very precise diagnostic tests and minimally invasive procedures, such as catheter ablation, to completely cure specific forms of cardiac arrhythmias. Another advantage of the Siemens‘ Room is markedly reduced radiation exposure to the patient.

As part of its electrophysiology services, the Heart Institute also offers state-of-the-art procedures such as laser extraction, tilt table studies, and cardiac ablations.