Download Electrophysiology Study

Electrophysiology Study
Explanation of procedure.
The aim of the procedure is to look for abnormal heart rhythms in order to guide any future
treatment.
It is performed using thin tubes inserted into the blood vessel/s usually at the top of your
leg, in your groin, through which fine wires are passed up into your heart with the help of
X-rays. Once in the heart, these wires are used to try to start up these heart rhythms and
identify them. Sometimes medication is given through a drip in your arm to help try and
start up the abnormal heart rhythms.
The intended benefits of this procedure
To test for any abnormal or life-threatening heart rhythms
Serious or frequently occurring risks:
Less than 1 in 100 risk of serious or life threatening complications such as:
 blood clots which could cause a stroke or a heart attack;
 puncture of the blood vessels or heart wall which could lead to a collection of blood
in the sac surrounding the heart and which could lead to an emergency operation
to repair.
Less than 1 in 1000 risk of needing a permanent pacemaker due to unintentional damage
to the normal conduction system in your heart.
1-5 in 100 risk of bruising or swelling (false aneurysm) where the wires have been
removed from the vein after the procedure.
Common complications: bruising, oozing from the puncture sight, short term memory loss
from effects of sedation (if used)
Any extra Additional procedures which may become necessary during or after the
procedure
Transeptal puncture - this involves passing a wire through the thin muscle wall between
the top two chambers of the heart in order to reach the left hand side of the heart.
Pericardiocentesis - this involves inserting a needle in to the chest wall to remove of
blood from the sac surrounding the heart if a puncture of the blood vessels or heart
occurs.
I have discussed what the procedure is likely to involve, the benefits and risks of any
available alternative treatments (including no treatment) and any particular concerns of this
patient.
□ Electrophysiology Study patient information leaflet has been given to you.
The procedure will involve:
□ General anaesthesia
V3 Oct 2010
□ Local anaesthesia
□ Sedation if required