What is an EP study and catheter ablation?

An electrophysiology (EP) study is a test to see if there is a problem with your child's heartbeat (heart rhythm). The test can also find out how to fix the problem. Sometimes a procedure called catheter ablation is done during an EP study. This destroys (ablates) small areas of your child's heart that are causing the heart rhythm problem.

The doctor puts long, flexible plastic tubes called catheters into a blood vessel in your child's groin, arm, or neck. The doctor then uses an X-ray machine to guide the catheters to your child's heart. Your doctor uses them to record the heart's electrical signals.

If the doctor thinks your child's problem can be fixed with ablation, he or she can destroy a small part of the heart tissue. This is usually done with radio waves.

It may seem like a bad idea to destroy parts of the heart on purpose. But the areas that are destroyed are very tiny. They should not affect the heart's ability to do its job.

Your child will probably be awake during the procedure. The doctor will give your child medicines to help him or her feel relaxed. Medicines also numb the areas where the catheters go in. Your child may feel a little discomfort. But he or she should not feel pain.

If your child has an EP study only and does not need more treatment, your child may go home the same day.

If your child also has ablation, he or she may have to stay in the hospital. How long your child will stay depends on the type of ablation.

At home, your child should not exercise hard until your doctor says it is okay. Your doctor will tell you when your child can go back to school or daycare.

What happens on the day of the procedure?

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  Follow the instructions exactly about when your child should stop eating and drinking. If you don't, the procedure may be cancelled. If the doctor told you to have your child take his or her medicines on the day of the procedure, have your child take them with only a sip of water.
• Have your child take a bath or shower before you come in. Do not apply lotion or deodorant.
• Your child may brush his or her teeth. But tell your child not to swallow any toothpaste or water.
• Do not let your child wear contact lenses. Bring your child's glasses or contact lens case.
• Be sure your child has something that reminds him or her of home. A special stuffed animal, toy, or blanket may be comforting. For an older child, it might be a book or music.

At the hospital or surgery centre

• A parent or legal guardian must accompany your child.
• Your child will be kept comfortable and safe by an anesthesia provider. Your child may get medicine to bring on a light sleep or to relax him or her. The area being worked on will be numb.
• This procedure can take 2 to 6 hours. In rare cases, it can take longer.
• After the procedure, your child will be taken to the recovery room. As your child wakes up, the recovery room staff will monitor his or her condition. The doctor will talk to you about the procedure.
• Pressure will be applied to the area where the catheter was put in the blood vessel. Then the area may be covered with a bandage or a compression device. This will prevent bleeding. Nurses will check the area often.
• If the catheter was put in your child's groin, your child will need to lie still and keep the leg straight for several hours.
• If the catheter was put in your child's arm, your child may be able to sit up and get out of bed right away. But he or she will need to keep the arm still for at least 1 hour.
• Your child may have a bruise or a small lump where the catheter was put in the blood vessel. This is normal and will go away.