Name of the Procedure:

Catheter, irvine inquiry steerable electrophysiology 6f catheter (C2003) Common name(s): Electrophysiology Study, EP Study with Irvine Inquiry Catheter Technical terms: Catheter Ablation, Electrophysiology Mapping

Summary

An electrophysiology study (EP study) using the Irvine Inquiry Steerable 6F catheter involves inserting a flexible catheter into the heart to diagnose and treat electrical issues. It helps doctors pinpoint the cause of abnormal heart rhythms and guide therapeutic interventions.

Purpose

The procedure addresses arrhythmias or abnormal heart rhythms. It aims to diagnose specific types of arrhythmias, locate their origin within the heart, and sometimes treat them through targeted ablation.

Indications

• Symptoms such as palpitations, dizziness, fainting (syncope), or chest pain.
• Diagnosed arrhythmias like atrial fibrillation, ventricular tachycardia, or supraventricular tachycardia.
• Unexplained cardiac events suggestive of electrical issues.

Preparation

• Fasting for 6-8 hours before the procedure.
• Adjustments to medications as advised by the physician.
• Pre-procedure assessments such as ECG, blood tests, and imaging studies.

Procedure Description

1. The patient is given local anesthesia and possibly mild sedation.
2. A catheter is inserted into a blood vessel, usually in the groin, and guided to the heart.
3. Electrical signals are mapped using the steerable Irvine Inquiry catheter.
4. Abnormal tissue may be ablated to correct arrhythmias.
5. The catheter is removed, and the insertion site is closed.

Tools and Equipment: Steerable 6F electrophysiology catheter, fluoroscopy for guidance, ablation equipment if required.

Duration

The procedure typically takes 2-4 hours.

Setting

Performed in a hospital's electrophysiology lab or specialized cardiac center.

Personnel

• Electrophysiologist (heart rhythm specialist)
• Cardiac nurses
• Anesthesiologist or sedation nurse
• Technicians specialized in electrophysiology

Risks and Complications

• Minor bleeding or bruising at the insertion site
• Infection
• Blood clots
• Rare but severe complications like heart or blood vessel damage
• Arrhythmia induction requiring emergency treatment

Benefits

• Accurate diagnosis of heart rhythm issues
• Potentially immediate treatment via ablation
• Improved symptoms and heart function

Recovery

• Observation for a few hours post-procedure
• Instructions to rest for 24-48 hours
• Avoid strenuous activity for a week
• Follow-up visits for monitoring and assessment

Alternatives

• Medication management of arrhythmias
• External procedures like cardioversion
• Implantable devices like pacemakers or defibrillators Pros and cons:
• Medication less invasive but may not be as effective
• Cardioversion non-invasive but temporary
• Devices effective but involve long-term management and potential for repeat procedures

Patient Experience

During: Mild discomfort due to local anesthesia, minimal pain, and relaxation from sedation. After: Mild soreness at the insertion site, possible fatigue, symptom improvement post-recovery. Pain management includes over-the-counter pain relievers and prescribed medications for comfort.