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An electrophysiology (EP) study is a procedure done in the cardiac catheterization
laboratory to test the heart for rhythm abnormalities (know as arrhythmias). This procedure is similar to an angiogram, although the catheter goes in the vein of the leg rather than the artery. Several catheters are inserted up to
the right side of the heart to measure the timing of electrical conduction, and determine which type of rhythm problems might
be present. New technology allows for 3-dimentional mapping of electrical pathways.
There are several parts to the EP study. First, the normal electrical
pathways are measured to determine if the pathways are too slow or have abnormal pauses. Second, the heart is measured
for electrical pathways that should not be present, as they may lead to abnormal rhythms such as SVT. Common extra pathways that may be present are "accessory pathways" and "slow pathways". Third, the heart is
stimulated with an artificial pacemaker to try and cause a bad heart rhythm, such as Ventricular Tachycardia. This may determine whether a defibillator type pacemaker is needed permanantly. Once these arrhythmias are identified, an ablation may be recommended to prevent it from occurring again. These arrhythmias can cause symptoms of lightheadedness, palpitations,
or passing out.
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