The Presbyterian Cardiovascular Institute Electrophysiology (EP) Lab is dedicated to the electrical study of the heart. For patients whose cardiovascular electrical systems are not functioning properly, the studies and procedures conducted in the lab are used to detect and treat heart rhythm disturbances in a controlled setting.
Patients with abnormal heart rhythms, or arrhythmias, may experience palpitations, dizziness, chest pain or fainting. While most arrhythmias are not life-threatening, some are potentially dangerous if left untreated.
Presbyterian has a full-time, dedicated electrophysiology staff that includes certified cardiovascular technologists and registered nurses. They assist specially trained physicians who use the latest technology to treat patients with heart electrical complications.
During EP studies, small electrode catheters are guided into the heart, typically starting from the groin. Once the electrodes are in the heart, the cardiologist conducts a series of specialized electrical exercises. The electrodes record the heart's electrical activity and can locate the source of abnormal heartbeats.
