Cardiac Electrophysiology at CMIB — Diagnosis and Treatment of Arrhythmias

Cardiac electrophysiology at CMIB provides accurate diagnosis and modern treatment for arrhythmias. Through minimally invasive technologies such as radiofrequency ablation, specialized cardiologists analyze and correct heart rhythm disturbances, ensuring maximum safety and rapid recovery for each patient.

What is cardiac electrophysiology

Definition

Cardiac electrophysiology is an invasive investigation that analyzes the electrical activity of the heart to identify the causes of rhythm disturbances. By inserting fine catheters into the cavities of the heart, the doctor can measure electrical impulses and locate exactly the areas responsible for arrhythmias.

Medical importance

This procedure is essential for patients who experience palpitations, fainting, irregular heartbeat, or episodes of loss of consciousness. Based on the results, the doctor may recommend targeted treatments such as radiofrequency ablation, which permanently correct electrical abnormalities. Electrophysiology is considered one of the most accurate and safe diagnostic methods in arrhythmology.

When electrophysiological investigation is recommended

Clinical Symptoms and Suspicions

Electrophysiology is indicated for patients who have heart rhythm disturbances that are difficult to diagnose by ECG or Holter monitoring. Among the symptoms that may require this investigation are:

  • frequent or severe palpitations;

  • rapid or irregular heartbeat (tachycardia, atrial fibrillation, atrial flutter);

  • dizziness or unexplained loss of consciousness;

  • episodes of resuscitated cardiac arrest;

  • suspicion of an electrical conduction disease of the heart.

Post-treatment assessment

The procedure is also recommended for patients who have previously received cardiac ablation, pacemaker implant or defibrillator, to verify the effectiveness of treatment and adjust the implanted devices.

Differential diagnosis

In some cases, electrophysiology is used to differentiate benign rhythm disorders from potentially dangerous ones, establishing whether the patient needs immediate intervention or long-term monitoring.

How the electrophysiology procedure is carried out

Principle of operation

Electrophysiology involves the introduction of thin catheters through a vein (usually in the groin) to the chambers of the heart. These catheters transmit and record the electrical signals generated by the heart, allowing the doctor to observe in real time the path of impulses.

Stages of examination

The procedure is carried out under sterile conditions, in an angiography room, under local anesthesia and light sedation. After inserting catheters, the doctor can stimulate the heart to reproduce the arrhythmia and identify exactly the place of origin. In some cases, treatment (ablation) can be performed in the same session, by applying radiofrequency energy to isolate the affected area. The total duration is generally 1—2 hours.

Result of the investigation

At the end of the procedure, the cardiologist gives a complete interpretation, describing the type of arrhythmia and, if ablation was performed, its outcome. The report includes information about the cardiac electrical pathway and recommendations for further treatment or monitoring.

Types of electrophysiological procedures

Diagnostic electrophysiological study (EPS)

It is the standard procedure used to accurately identify the type and location of arrhythmia. It can be performed independently or as a pre-ablation stage.

Radiofrequency ablation

Minimally invasive treatment that uses controlled electricity to destroy the tissues that produce the arrhythmia. It is considered a curative method with a high success rate.

Implantation of cardiac devices

In some cases, the electrophysiological study may indicate the need for implantation of a pacemaker (pacemaker) or automatic defibrillator (ICD) to prevent serious rhythm disturbances.

Electrophysiology 3D

Three-dimensional technology allows precise mapping of the electrical activity of the heart, giving the doctor an accurate “map” of the affected areas, thereby increasing the efficiency of ablation.

What conditions can electrophysiology detect or treat

Supraventricular tachycardia

Rapid arrhythmias that start from the upper chambers of the heart and cause accelerated beats and palpitations.

Atrial fibrillation

The most common arrhythmia, characterized by irregular and rapid beats. Electrophysiology allows to accurately diagnose and, through ablation, treat the cause.

Atrial flutter

Arrhythmia with a regular but fast rhythm, which can be corrected by radiofrequency ablation.

Ventricular tachycardia

Severe, life-threatening rhythm disorder diagnosed and treated with advanced electrophysiological procedures.

Driving blocks and preexcitation syndromes

The investigation identifies electrical conduction defects between the atria and ventricles, being essential in establishing the need for a pacemaker.

Preparing for the investigation

General recommendations

The patient should not eat or drink 6—8 hours before the procedure. Depending on the doctor's indications, anticoagulant or antiarrhythmic treatments can be temporarily adjusted. It is important that the patient informs the medical team about all medications taken and possible allergies.

Special Situations

If ablation is planned at the same session, the patient will be informed about the prolonged duration of the procedure and the short period of post-intervention surveillance. In general, hospitalization is one day.

After the procedure

Immediately after the examination

After the procedure, the patient is monitored for several hours to control blood pressure and heart rate. In case of inguinal vein puncture, bed rest is recommended for 4—6 hours. Local discomfort is minimal and quickly disappears.

Care and results

The doctor gives the patient a complete report with recommendations for recovery and treatment. Depending on the result, periodic check-ups or medication adjustments can be established.

Benefits of Cardiac Electrophysiology

Accurate and personalized diagnosis

It allows to accurately identify the cause of arrhythmias and choose the most appropriate treatment, adapted to each patient.

Minimally invasive treatment

Ablation procedures eliminate the cause of arrhythmia without classical surgery, with a high success rate and rapid recovery.

Safety and efficiency

Conducted under controlled conditions under the supervision of an experienced cardiology team, electrophysiology provides sustainable results with minimal risks.

Schedule now

If you experience palpitations, irregular heartbeat, or have been recommended a specialist investigation, make an appointment now for a complete electrophysiological assessment. Our team of cardiologists specializing in arrhythmology provides you with accurate diagnosis, modern treatment and complete safety.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Electrophysiology

What is an electrophysiological study?

It is a procedure that analyzes the electrical pathways of the heart to locate the source of an arrhythmia.

Is electrophysiology necessary for all patients with palpitations?

No, it is usually indicated in cases where standard investigations (EKG, Holter) do not provide enough data for effective treatment.

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