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An electrophysiologist (EP) is a cardiologist who
specializes in the diagnosis, prevention and treatment
of abnormal heart rhythms (arrhythmias). Arrhythmias
are disorders in which the heart beats too fast or too
slow, or in a disorganized or irregular pattern. EPs
are medical doctors who have completed specialty training
in general cardiology, followed by two or more years
of additional study and clinical training in the diagnosis
and treatment of conditions related to the electrical
system of the heart.
Consultation with an electrophysiologist is recommended
for individuals with heart failure who may be at increased
risk for heart rhythm disorders and sudden cardiac death,
including those who:
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Have survived an episode of cardiac
arrest Have an abnormal heart rhythm (arrhythmia)
of unknown cause, or symptoms that cannot be controlled
with medications |
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Have episodes of fainting (syncope)
of unknown cause |
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Experience recurrent episodes of ventricular
tachycardia - a too-fast heart beat that arises
in the lower chambers (ventricles) of the heart |
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Have certain types of supraventricular
tachycardia (SVT) that cannot be controlled with
medication. SVT is a rapid heart beat that arises
in the upper chambers (atria) of the heart, or near
the junction between the upper and lower chambers.
The most common type of SVT is atrial fibrillation. |
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Have certain medical conditions that
put them at high risk for ventricular fibrillation
and sudden cardiac death, such as a prior heart
attack. |
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Are candidates for treatments such
as catheter ablation or implantation of a pacemaker,
implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD), resynchronization
device or hemodynamic monitor. |
Your healthcare provider may refer you to an electrophysiologist
for evaluation, or go to Find
a Specialist to find a heart rhythm specialist in
your area.
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