For Patients
Electrophysiology – a Brief Explanation
Electrophysiology (sometimes referred to as cardiac electrophysiology) is the branch of medicine that relates to the heart’s electrical system. Electrophysiology also refers to any procedure that involves the insertion of an electrode catheter – a long, flexible wire that can transmit electrical currents -- into the heart.
Some electrophysiology studies are done to diagnose potential issues, such as an abnormal heart rhythm, called an arrhythmia (the heart beats too slowly, too rapidly, or in an irregular pattern) or other heart rhythm conditions.
Other types of electrophysiology are done to access the heart for treatment or correction of certain conditions, and may involve the placement/replacements of pacemakers or similar devices.
How The Heart Works – An Electric Pump
The heart’s electrical system transmits electrical impulses all through blood system within the heart to control the rhythmic pumping of blood. These electrical impulses are controlled by the sinus node (1), a group of specialized cells that act as the heart’s natural pacemaker.
From the sinus node, the electrical impulses are transmitted to the heart’s upper chambers (Right and Left Atrium – 2 and 3) which cause contractions that pump blood into the lower (Right and left ventricles 4 and 5.) Electrical impulses then spread to the atrioventricular (AV) node (6) where they are buffered before passing through the ventricles. Specialized muscle fibers in the ventricles distribute the impulses that cause them to contract and pump blood.
When there is a problem with the heart’s electrical system, its pumping power is reduced causing blood circulation problems -- the body does not get the full supply of oxygen that it needs.
That’s where electrophysiology comes in – to provide various ways to re-establish a regular heart rhythm.
