Electrophysiology (EP) Studies at Children's Hospital Colorado

Doctors use an EP study to learn 
more about the electrical
function of a child's heart.

An electrophysiology (EP) study is an invasive test that is performed in the Catheterization Lab and measures the heart’s electrical activity. The EP study provides more accurate and detailed information about the heart's electrical function than other diagnostic tests. This test is primarily used in patients who have arrhythmias or heart block.

What to expect from an EP study

All patients receive general anesthesia for EP studies. A catheter is placed directly into the right atrium of the heart. Catheters are most commonly inserted in the veins in the groin area and the neck. An x-ray machine is used to ensure that the catheter is located in the correct position. During the test, an EKG is used to monitor the heart’s response to electrical pulses that are delivered through the catheter.

Learn more about other common heart tests.