Cardiac electrophysiology

Cardiac Electrophysiology

Cardiac electrophysiology is a discipline that investigates the electrical activity of the heart to diagnose and treat arrhythmias (irregular heart rhythms). The heart's "electrical system" triggers the heart muscle to contract, ensuring efficient blood pumping to supply oxygen and nutrients to the bodily organs.

What is the cardiac electrical system?

The cardiac electrical system consists of two essential elements: the heart's electrical impulse generator and conduction network. This system generates electrical impulses from the sinoatrial node (SA node) in the right upper heart chamber, where it automatically emits electrical impulses at a regular rate of 60 to 100 times per minute. These impulses travel through specialized conduction pathways, first to the right and left atria and then through the atrioventricular node (AV node), which delays the signal slightly to allow ventricular filling and then moves through the bundle of His and the right and left bundle branches to activate the corresponding ventricles, causing the coordinated contraction of the heart muscle and efficient pumping of blood into the arteries, delivering oxygen and nutrients throughout the body.

Usually, the flow of these electrical signals is well-coordinated throughout the heart chambers. However, any disruption or short circuit in the system can result in arrhythmias or abnormal heart rhythms, such as tachycardia (an abnormally fast heart rate) or bradycardia (an abnormally slow heart rate). If severe and left untreated, these conditions can be life-threatening.

How do cardiac electrophysiologists treat patients?

Cardiac electrophysiologists act as the "heart electricians," specializing in identifying electrical irregularities through electrophysiology studies and devising strategies to prevent future occurrences. Treatment plans are individualized and may involve medications, catheter ablation to correct abnormal heart rhythms or implantable devices such as pacemakers and defibrillators. The primary goal is to enhance the patient's quality of life, allowing them to confidently carry out daily activities, free from the fear of recurring arrhythmias.

What is a cardiac electrophysiology study?

A cardiac electrophysiology study (EPS) is a minimally invasive procedure. During the procedure, the doctor inserts a catheter with electrodes through a tiny incision into a large vein in the groin and threads it up to the heart. The procedure can effectively identify the cause, type, and precise location of the origin of abnormal heart signals. Immediate treatment through radiofrequency ablation targets and destroys the tissue responsible for the arrhythmia, yielding significant recovery and notable improvement in patients' quality of life.

Why choose MedPark for your cardiac electrophysiology study?

Our highly experienced electrophysiologists specializing in complex arrhythmias perform the procedures.
We collaborate with specialists from related fields to determine the most appropriate treatment plan tailored to each patient.
Our Cardiac Electrophysiology Lab (EP Lab) is equipped with advanced medical instruments and technology to enhance the effectiveness of treatments.
Our cardiac and thoracic surgeons, with over 15 years of experience, are available for immediate care when necessary.
Our professional nurses and multidisciplinary team, skilled in cardiac electrophysiology, provide attentive care throughout the treatment procedure.
We offer continuous support from cardiovascular rehabilitation specialists and physical therapists to help patients regain optimal health and quality of life.

Electrophysiology disorder and abnormalities

Heart arrhythmia could be one of the following types:

Tachycardia is a condition where the heart rate exceeds 100 beats per minute and is classifiable into:
- Atrial fibrillation
- Atrial flutter
- Supraventricular tachycardia
- Ventricular tachycardia
- Ventricular fibrillation
Bradycardia: A condition where the heart rate is below 60 beats per minute. It is classifiable into:
- Sick sinus syndrome
- Conduction blocks such as atrioventricular block (AV block) and bundle branch block
Premature heartbeats: Early heartbeats originate from either the atria or ventricles, causing a sensation of irregular heart rhythms. Generally, this condition is not life-threatening.

Signs and indicators you should see a cardiac electrophysiologic

Heart arrhythmias often do not present clear warning signs and are commonly detected incidentally during routine exams or when abnormal heart rhythms cause symptoms.

Noticeable signs include:

Chest tightness
Palpitations
Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
Abnormally rapid or slow heartbeats
Excessive sweating
Easy fatigue or feeling of a racing heart
Weakness
Dizziness or fainting
Sudden loss of consciousness

If you experience any of these symptoms, it is crucial to consult a physician promptly. In cases of syncope, irregular pulse, or cessation of breathing and pulses, call emergency services immediately and perform CPR or use an AED to increase the chances of survival.

Who is at risk?

Individuals with a family history of heart disease
Individuals with heart conditions such as coronary artery disease, cardiomyopathy, or heart failure
Individuals with chronic illnesses, including diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol, or hyperthyroidism
Individuals with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA)
Individuals who smoke, use recreational drugs, and consume excessive alcohol or caffeine.
Individuals who experience high levels of stress, anxiety, and insufficient sleep.

Medical services by cardiac electrophysiologists.

Cardiac catheterization
Treatment modalities for arrhythmias include:
- Medication to regulate heart rhythms
- Radiofrequency ablation (RF ablation)
- Permanent pacemaker
- Implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD)
- Cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT)