electrophysiology study
Also written as: EPS — electrophysiology study
Invasive procedure using intracardiac catheters to evaluate and treat heart rhythm disorders.
Full Definition
An electrophysiology study (EPS) is an invasive cardiac procedure that uses specialized catheters placed in the heart to record electrical activity and diagnose arrhythmias. During the procedure, cardiologists can map abnormal electrical pathways, induce arrhythmias under controlled conditions, and perform therapeutic ablations to eliminate arrhythmic circuits. EPS is commonly used to evaluate patients with syncope of unknown origin, documented or suspected ventricular tachycardia, atrial fibrillation, or supraventricular tachycardia. The procedure can also guide decisions about implantable cardioverter-defibrillator placement and assess the effectiveness of antiarrhythmic medications. Therapeutic interventions during EPS include radiofrequency ablation and cryoablation.
Usage
Usage note: Commonly abbreviated as EPS or EP study; distinguish from electrophysiology as a field of study.
In Context
- "The patient underwent an electrophysiology study for inducible ventricular tachycardia." — procedural report
- "Radiofrequency ablation was performed during the electrophysiology study to eliminate the accessory pathway." — interventional cardiology note