CaRi-heart technology
Revolutionary new technology to assess the risk of a serious heart condition or heart attack – many years before anything happens.
Electrophysiology studies (EPS)
- Immediate results, explained by your cardiologist
- No.1 private cardiac provider in the UK
- 99% of cardiac patients would recommend us to their friends or family
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Electrophysiology studies at HCA UK
Why choose us
If you need an electrophysiology studies to map your heart's electrical activity, you can rest assured you're in good hands with us. Our expert cardiac consultants treat more than 36,000 patients each year, and 99% of those would recommend us to friends and family.
At HCA UK, our leading private hospitals, clinics and diagnostic centres ensure you’ll have access to the latest technologies and treatments. That is why we’re the number one provider of private cardiac care in the UK.
Electrophysiology studies is a detailed test that assesses how your heart’s electrical system is functioning. During the procedure, thin, flexible wires are gently guided through a vein from your leg into your heart so specialists can record electrical signals and identify any abnormal heart rhythms (cardiac arrhythmias).
These studies help your cardiologist pinpoint the exact source of rhythm problems, so they can recommend the most effective treatment options.
You may need an electrophysiology studies if your cardiology consultant suspects a problem with your heart rhythm. These tests help identify the exact cause of symptoms and guide the right treatment, whether that is medication, ablation or a device such as a pacemaker.
Common symptoms that may lead to an electrophysiology studies include:
- Palpitations or fluttering in the chest
- Dizziness
- Unexplained fainting
- Rapid or irregular heartbeats
- Shortness of breath linked to rhythm changes
You can have a private electrophysiology studies across our network of hospitals in London and Manchester. EPS heart procedures are available at:
- The Harley Street Clinic
- The Lister Hospital
- London Bridge Hospital
- The Wellington Hospital
- The Wilmslow Hospital
Electrophysiology studies are generally safe, although every procedure carries some risk. Possible complications include:
- Bleeding or bruising at the catheter site
- An extremely rare risk of injuring the wall of the heart with a catheter, leading to bleeding.
Serious problems are rare, and your cardiology team will be with you at every stage to monitor you closely throughout.
Rapid access to tests and scans
See a specialist and get on the path to an expert diagnosis in as little as 24 hours.
State-of-the-art facilities
Access innovative treatment options.
Wide-reaching expertise across the UK
Visit any of our 15 dedicated diagnostic centres in London, Manchester and Birmingham.
Our locations
Where can I get an electrophysiology studies?
You can access electrophysiology studies across our network of private hospitals in London and Manchester. When you choose HCA UK, you’ll have peace of mind that you’ll receive exceptional cardiac care from a specialist team that is by your side at every step of your journey.
The Harley Street Clinic
35 Weymouth Street W1G 8BJ London
The Lister Hospital
Chelsea Bridge Road SW1W 8RH London
London Bridge Hospital
27 Tooley Street SE1 2PR London
Your electrophysiology studies with HCA UK
What to expect for an EPS heart test procedure
When you choose HCA UK for your private electrophysiology studies, your cardiology specialist will be there to guide you at every step. They’ll explain what’s involved and answer any questions you may have. From referral to follow-up, you’ll be supported before, during and after your electrophysiology studies.
01
Referral for appointment
Your journey starts with a referral through the cardiac referral line on 020 7616 4988. This helps us arrange the right appointment for you and ensures you’re seen by the right cardiology specialist.
02
Initial consultation
You’ll have a consultation with your cardiology consultant to discuss your symptoms, medical history and any concerns. This appointment helps confirm whether an electrophysiology studies is right for you and gives you time to ask questions.
03
Preparing for your EPS
Your cardiology consultant will explain how to prepare. It’s important to tell us about any medications you’re taking, as you may need to stop taking some before treatment. You’ll be asked not to eat or drink for a few hours before the test. Your cardiology specialist will explain any risks and possible side effects.
04
During the procedure
You’ll be given a local anaesthetic to numb your groin, where the catheter is inserted, and you may also be given a light sedative. Your cardiology specialist will then guide fine wires to your heart, send gentle electrical pulses and record how your heart responds to locate the arrhythmia.
05
After the procedure
You should be able to go home the same day. Please arrange for someone to travel home with you. You’ll need to rest for three to four days afterwards to allow the top of your leg time to heal.
06
Follow-up
Your cardiology consultant will discuss your results with you and explain the recommended next steps. You’ll be told when you can return to your usual routines and given clear advice on medication, exercise, travel, diet and alcohol. They’ll also tailor a personalised treatment plan just for you.
Accessing private health care
Self-pay
You don’t need health insurance to be seen quickly. If you’re looking for a diagnosis or treatment and don’t want to wait, all our private healthcare services – from private GP appointments through to surgery and aftercare – can be paid for as and when you need them.
And to give you peace of mind from the start, we’ll offer you a clear and transparent quote outlining exactly what’s included in your self-pay package.
Electrophysiology studies FAQs
Electrophysiology studies help your cardiology consultant diagnose problems with your heart’s electrical system. By mapping how electrical signals move through your heart, EPS can identify the cause of abnormal rhythms and pinpoint where they start.
EPS can help diagnose the following conditions:
- Atrial fibrillation and atrial flutter
- Supraventricular tachycardia
- Ventricular arrhythmias
- Heart block or conduction problems
The results of your electrophysiology studies can help your cardiologist recommend the most effective treatment for you.
Electrophysiology studies aren’t usually painful. You’ll have a local anaesthetic to numb the area where the catheters are inserted, so you may feel some pressure but not pain. You may notice brief fluttering or a rapid heartbeat during your procedure, but this usually passes quickly and is normal.
Your cardiology team will continuously monitor your condition and explain each step, so you know what to expect.
Your cardiology team will continuously monitor your condition and explain each step, so you know what to expect.
We recommend that you wear loose and comfortable clothing when you come for your electrophysiology studies. You’ll change into a hospital gown before the procedure, so avoid tight trousers or restrictive underwear. It’s best to leave jewellery and valuables at home. Your cardiology team will talk you through everything when you arrive.
An electrophysiology studies usually takes around one hour, although it can take longer if your cardiology consultant needs to assess several heart rhythms. You should expect to be at the hospital for several hours in total to allow time for preparation, recovery and observation after your procedure.
An ECG records your heart’s electrical activity from the skin and gives a brief snapshot of your heart rhythm. An electrophysiology study is much more detailed. It involves placing fine wires inside your heart to map electrical signals in real time.
This allows your cardiology consultant to precisely identify rhythm disturbances that may not be visible on an ECG.
This allows your cardiology consultant to precisely identify rhythm disturbances that may not be visible on an ECG.
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This content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.