Electrophysiology at Covenant Health

Irregular heartbeats, or arrhythmias, happen when the heart’s electrical system malfunctions, causing it to beat too fast, too slow, or erratically. Electrophysiology focuses on studying and treating these electrical signals to diagnose the cause of arrhythmias and determine the best treatment, such as medication, ablation, or implantable devices.

Cardiac syncope is a sudden loss of consciousness caused by a temporary drop in blood flow to the brain due to an underlying heart condition, such as arrhythmias or structural heart disease. Electrophysiology helps diagnose the cause of cardiac syncope by evaluating the heart’s electrical system through tests like ECGs, Holter monitors, and electrophysiology studies (EPS) to identify and treat abnormal rhythms.

Cardiac arrest is a life-threatening condition where the heart suddenly stops beating due to an electrical malfunction, preventing blood flow to the brain and organs. Electrophysiology plays a crucial role in identifying and treating the abnormal heart rhythms (arrhythmias) that can lead to cardiac arrest, using diagnostic tests and treatments to help prevent future episodes.

Non-invasive heart rhythm monitoring involves external devices that record the heart’s electrical activity over time to detect irregular rhythms without the need for surgery or internal procedures. Examples include:

• Electrocardiogram (EKG/ECG): a quick, painless, in-office test that records the heart’s electrical signals to detect arrhythmias.
• Holter Monitoring: a portable device worn for 24–48 hours to continuously track heart rhythms during daily activities.
• Event Recording/Monitoring: A wearable monitor used for weeks or months that records heart activity only when triggered by symptoms or automatically detects irregular rhythms.

Irregular heart rhythm evaluation involves diagnostic tests and procedures used to assess and identify abnormal heart rhythms, helping guide treatment options. Examples include:

• Arrhythmia Evaluation: a comprehensive assessment of the heart’s electrical activity to identify and diagnose the cause, type, and severity of an irregular heart rhythm.
• Tilt Table Testing: a test where you are strapped to a table that tilts to monitor how changes in position affect heart rate and blood pressure, often used to diagnose fainting or syncope.

Invasive diagnostic procedures in electrophysiology involve using specialized instruments, often inserted into the body, to directly assess the heart’s electrical system and diagnose rhythm disorders. This includes:

• EP Study (Electrophysiology Study): a procedure where catheters are inserted into the heart to map electrical signals and identify the source of arrhythmias for targeted treatment.

Electrophysiology treatments at Covenant Health focus on diagnosing and managing heart rhythm disorders using advanced technology. These treatments range from medication management to minimally invasive procedures that help regulate or restore normal heart rhythms, including:

• Catheter Ablation: a minimally invasive procedure used to treat abnormal heart rhythms by targeting the areas of the heart responsible for irregular electrical signals. During the procedure, a thin, flexible catheter is guided through a blood vessel to the heart, where controlled energy—such as heat or cold—is applied to disrupt the faulty electrical pathways and restore a stable heartbeat.

Follow your physician’s guidance on medications, fasting, and activity restrictions. Please bring a list of your current medications and any relevant medical records to ensure the best care.

Our expert care team will guide you through the procedure, which is typically painless and minimally invasive, ensuring your comfort and safety at every step.

Once your results are available, we will review them with you and discuss the next steps, including any necessary treatment options tailored to your needs.