Electrophysiological Studies
A sophisticated laboratory for electrophysiology analysis and research complements the comprehensive cardiovascular program at Providence Hospital. The lab covers the spectrum of diagnostic and therapeutic modalities for the treatment of cardiac disorders.
The level of clinical electrophysiology study offered at the Heart Institute surpasses diagnosis that is attainable with routine ECG procedures. Patients with irregular heart rhythms benefit from the highest level of evaluation.
Special electrode catheter techniques are used to investigate the mechanism of arrhythmias and to select the most effective therapy. Specific procedures performed in the lab include diagnostic catheter techniques, non-invasive studies of the automatic nervous system, computerized heart mapping, ablation procedures for the control of certain arrhythmias, pacemaker and defibrillator implantation, and function evaluation.
Customized drug, device or ablation therapy can be individually designed with greater speed and fewer side effects through electrophysiology testing.
Tilt Table Testing
A Tilt Table Study is a procedure which is used to evaluate patients that have had undiagnosed symptoms of dizziness, lightheadedness, fainting or passing-out spells (also called syncope).
A Tilt Table Study consists of placing the patient on a motorized table that tilts to an upright position. An intravenous (IV) is started, and the patient’s blood pressure and electrocardiogram are monitored throughout the procedure. They are then tilted to an approximate 70-degree upright position. They will remain in this position for a predetermined period of time or until symptoms are noted. At this time, the patient will be returned to a flat (supine) position and monitored until the end of the study. The entire procedure generally takes less than one hour and most patients can go home immediately afterwards. The results of this study are evaluated by your physician to determine the state of your condition and any treatment you may require.
