Electrophysiology Tests

Loyola's Center for Heart & Vascular Medicine offers a range of electrophysiology services to test and treat irregularities in heart rhythms, including:

Electrophysiology study (EPS)
Tilt table testing

Electrophysiology study (EPS)
An electrophysiology study (EPS) is an accurate test for assessing the heart's normal electrical function and locating abnormal sites inside the heart that may be causing seriously abnormal heart rhythms. The patient is sedated and special electrode catheters (long, flexible wires) are inserted into a vein in either the patient's leg or neck, and are guided into the heart with special X-ray equipment. This procedure is performed in the electrophysiology lab.

Tilt table testing
Tilt table testing is used to evaluate a patient who has had a syncopal (fainting) episode. This test helps determine how the body responds to body position changes. The patient lies strapped on a special table. The heart rate and rhythm is monitored, and an intravenous line is started on the patient. The table then is rotated to an upright position and is kept in this position until a change in heart rate or blood pressure occurs, or the patient experiences the symptoms felt prior to a syncopal episode or passes out. When the symptoms occur, the patient is returned to the supine (flat) position. If, after 30 minutes, no symptoms appear, a medication that is similar to the adrenaline released by the body during times of stress, will be injected to simulate the symptoms.

If you would like to make an appointment or need assistance to find an appropriate physician, please call us at (888) LUHS-888.

Related Links
Electrophysiology devices/treatments