Electrophysiology Study (EPS) with Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)

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Electrophysiology Study (EPS) with Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)

An Electrophysiological Study (EPS) is a test that looks at the electrical activity of the heart, allowing the doctor to diagnose and analyse fast or abnormal heart rhythms. It is able to give more detailed information than an external electrocardiogram (ECG).

What does the procedure involve?

It involves a fine tube called a catheter being inserted into the heart via a blood vessel (vein or artery) in the groin. The end of this catheter has a special electrode tip which stimulates the heart and records the electrical activity allowing the doctor to identify where any abnormalities may be coming from.

Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA), on the other hand, is a treatment that aims to control or correct an abnormal heart rhythm. 

It is carried out in the same way as an electrophysiological study (EPS) by inserting catheters into heart via the groin.  Radiofrequency energy (heat) is then used to destroy the small area in the heart where the abnormal electrical activity is coming from. This can be done at the same time as the EPS or on a separate occasion.

An electrophysiological study (EPS) may take 1 to 2 hours. An Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) also takes 1 to 2 hours, so it may take 3 to 4 hours to do both procedures.

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