Electrophysiology (EP)

Carle offers the regions most advanced Electrophysiology (EP) Clinic. Electrophysiology is a subspecialty of cardiology that focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of irregular heartbeats. Arrhythmias, or irregular heartbeats, make the heart beat too fast or too slow and can be fatal conditions. The Electrophysiology division of Carle Heart Center provides a wide array of advanced diagnostic and treatment options for conditions that deal with the electrical mechanisms in the heart and how they make the heart function. With expertise and the latest technology, Carle offers patients the possibility of curing some types of arrhythmias permanently.

Carle Electrophysiology Services
Carle Heart Center
602 W. University
Urbana, IL 61801
Phone: 217-383-3210
Fax: 217-383-3510

EP Diagnostic Test
The Carle Heart Center offers a complete spectrum of non-invasive and invasive electrophysiology diagnostic tests.

Non-Invasive Test
Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) - A test in which patches are applied to the patient’s skin and connected by cables to a machine that will print out a reading of the electrical activity of the heart. The test is painless, lasts less than 10 minutes, and provides the physician with valuable information about the electrical function of the patient’s heart.

Signal-averaged Electrocardiogram (SAECG) - Similar to the ECG (above), patches are applied to the back and front of the chest and connected to a machine that averages electrical impulses of the heart. This test lasts approximately 20 minutes, and helps the physician to identify those patients who may be at high risk for developing severe heart rhythm abnormalities.

Echocardiogram - This test utilizes ultrasound to visualize and measure the size, shape, and function of the heart structures. It may be ordered to determine if any structural abnormalities exist which may be contributing to EP problems.

Tilt Table Test - This test may be ordered for those who have been experiencing lightheadedness, dizziness, or "blacking out." The patient is placed on a table that tilts up to a standing position, while the patient is monitored carefully by a nurse. Intravenous medication may be administered during this procedure to help detect the problem. This procedure is usually painless, although some symptoms may be reproduced. The test lasts approximately 1 ½ hours.

Holter Monitor - This device is a 24 hour monitor that is connected to the patient by patches applied to the patient’s skin. A small monitor is worn for an entire day and night as it records the electrical signals of a patient’s heart as the patient performs his/her regular activities. This device may be applied to help the physician determine if an abnormal heart rhythm is present.

Event Recorder - A device used for a period of several weeks to help diagnose a potential abnormal heart rhythm that may occur on an infrequent or occasional basis. This device stores the recorded heart rhythm when the patient activates it. The information can be transmitted over the telephone to the EP Lab.

Invasive Testing
Electrophysiology Study (EP Study) - A procedure used to study the internal electrical conduction pattern of the heart to determine if an abnormality exists and how to treat the problem. In this laboratory procedure catheters are placed in the heart through veins to register the heart’s electrical impulses on a computer screen, to analyze those electrical signals, and to test for abnormal rhythms. This may also be performed to determine if medical treatment is appropriate or if an implantable device is needed. This procedure may be done on an out-patient basis and takes 1 to 4 hours to complete.

EP Treatment Procedures
Carle EP Center is equipped to provide the latest, advanced treatment for patients diagnosed with abnormal heart rhythms and other electrophysiology problems. Our center is proud to have a specially developed lab with computer-guided equipment for the catheter procedures we provide. In addition, our electrophysiologists utilize our surgery facilities to implant pacemakers and defibrillator devices as needed. In this way the patient is ensured continual care by the same staff before, during, and after any testing or intervention, in the hospital as well as in the clinic. Services provided include:

Radiofrequency Catheter Ablation (RFA) - A procedure performed in the EP lab under sterile conditions. Catheters are placed in the heart through veins (or occasionally via an artery) while the patient is sedated. The electrical patterns of the heart are measured and tested. Abnormal pathways of electrical conduction can be interrupted with a special catheter, which can cure the patient of an abnormal heart rhythm and eliminate the need for lifetime medications. This procedure typically lasts from 1 1/2 hours to 4 hours and requires an overnight stay in the hospital. The patient is usually able to return to work the next day. On rare occasions the procedure may need to be repeated. Read more about curative ablation of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation.

Cardioversion - In certain circumstances an abnormal heart rhythm, such as atrial fibrillation or atrial flutter, can be converted to a normal rhythm eliminating the need for some medications. This procedure is performed in the Heart Center prep/recovery area. Two large patches are applied to the chest, medication is given to help the patient sleep, and electrical current is used to convert the rhythm. The physician and nursing staff are at the patient’s side throughout the procedure. This can be performed as an out-patient procedure, and may require 2 to 4 hours.

Permanent Pacemaker Implantation - In some circumstances the electrophysiologist may find that the electrical conduction in a patient’s heart is slow or does not progress through the heart in a normal manner. In this case, our advanced practice nurse and device clinic staff will discuss with the patient all aspects of pacemaker insertion, hospital care, home management, and follow-up in the clinic. The electrophysiologist/surgeon will surgically implant a pacemaker suitable for the patient’s needs. Carle’s pacemaker device clinic will provide ongoing quality follow-up service.

Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator Device (ICD) - Occasionally a patient’s diagnostic test or certain condition may indicate that a potential life-threatening heart rhythm exists that may require treatment with an ICD. The EP staff will extensively discuss all options of treatment, including surgical implantation of this device. The newest devices are implanted using the latest technology for implantation and testing. Our electrophysiologists perform this procedure in the surgery facility. The physicians, along with our device clinic and advanced practice nursing staff, will follow the patient on a regular out-patient basis. In addition, support group services are available.