West Suburban Cardiologists, Ltd (Chicago)

What is Electrophysiology?

Electrophysiology is the study of the electrical conduction patterns of the heart. The cardiac (heart) muscle is unique because an intrinsic electrical pathway is the source from which the cardiac chambers of the heart respond and result in a contraction or squeezing of the muscle to promote blood flow.

Why study electrical pathways of the heart?

The flow or pumping of blood from the heart to the body is dependent on the stimulus initiating contraction. Thus, if an abnormal circuit (electrical pathway) exists, the efficiency of the heart may be compromised.

Who is a candidate for Electrophysiology studies?

Many of us at some time experience a skipping or extra heartbeat that can be perfectly normal. But when the feelings (symptoms) last for a time or interrupt everyday life resulting in dizziness, shortness of breath or feeling of anxiety, an electrophysiology study (EPS) may be an option.

When is an EPS appropriate?

Collaboration between yourself and your physician would be the first step in identifying criteria if an electrophysiology study is for you. If you were a candidate that would benefit from an electrophysiology study, a cardiology consult would be arranged for further information allocation.

Drs. Lewis and Park are on staff at all our our hospital locations and they perform diagnostic and electrophysiology testing. In addition, the implantpermanent pacemakers and internal defibrillators and have experience in catheter ablation for supraventricular arrhythmia's (SVT), atrial flutter, Wolff-Parkinson White Syndrome, and ventricular tachycardia. We also have expertise in drug treatment of various arrhythmias including use of Amiodarone and new agents like Tikosyn.

Here are discharge instructions after implantation of a pacemaker or defibrillator

To schedule an appointment, please call 708-482-3215 or 630-789-3422.

External Links:

North American Society of Pacing and Electrophysiology

Read the NASPE press release about ICDs and what happened to Vice-President Cheney