Electrophysiology study (EPS)

An electrophysiology study (EPS) is a detailed study of the heart’s electrical system. It is done to see if you have an abnormal heart rhythm (arrhythmia), and if so, where the abnormal rhythm is coming from.

If you have an EPS, here is what to expect:

• You will lie on a table and a technician will connect you to monitors.
• You will given a medicine to make you feel drowsy.
• Sheaths will be placed through the skin and into veins in your groin and/or neck.
• The catheters are placed through the sheaths and guided to your heart using X-ray.
• The catheters are used to sense electrical impulses in different areas of your heart.

Your doctor will review the data and talk with you about the best treatment options for managing your abnormal heart rhythm.

Related Links

Heart rhythm problems

About heart tests

Questions to ask before a heart test or procedure

Medical tests for heart problems

Surgeries and interventional procedures

Cardiovascular disease specialists

First published: 10/04/2002
Last updated: 06/01/2007

Reviewed by: Allina Patient Education experts