What does EP mean after a doctors name?
An electrophysiologist — also referred to as a cardiac electrophysiologist, arrhythmia specialist, or EP — is a doctor with a specialization in atypical heart rhythms and the electricity of the heart.
What is an EP lab in cardiology?
An electrophysiology (EP) study — also called invasive cardiac electrophysiology — is a series of tests that examine the heart’s electrical activity. The heart’s electrical system produces signals (impulses) that control the timing of the heartbeats.
What procedures does an electrophysiologist do?
An electrophysiology (EP) study is a test performed to assess your heart’s electrical system or activity and is used to diagnose abnormal heartbeats or arrhythmia. The test is performed by inserting catheters and then wire electrodes, which measure electrical activity, through blood vessels that enter the heart.
What is the difference between a cardiologist and a heart specialist?
The cardiologist performs a variety of tests, and they may perform heart catheterizations, angioplasty, pacemaker insertion, and other procedures. A cardiologist falls within the broader term of a cardiovascular specialist. Meaning, there are many types of cardiovascular specialists, and cardiologist is one.
What does an electrophysiologist treat?
An electrophysiologist, also known as a cardiac electrophysiologist or cardiac EP, is a cardiologist who focuses on testing for and treating problems involving irregular heart rhythms, also known as arrhythmias.
Why would you see an electrophysiologist?
Your primary care doctor or another cardiologist may refer you to an electrophysiologist if you: Have an abnormal heart rhythm. Are undergoing or being considered for cardiac ablation, a procedure that creates scar tissue in order to block erratic signals. Experience syncope, i.e., a sudden loss of consciousness.
What procedures does an EP do?
What happens during an EP study?
During an EP study, your doctor inserts small, thin wire electrodes into a vein in the groin (or neck, in some cases). He or she will then thread the wire electrodes through the vein and into the heart. To do this, he or she uses a special type of X-ray “movie,” called fluoroscopy.