Heart Rhythm Management (Electrophysiology) Program

The heart rhythm management program at Allina Health Minneapolis Heart Institute^® diagnoses and treats heart rhythm problems, also called irregular heartbeat or arrhythmia. These issues are the result of abnormal electrical impulses that case the heart to beat too quickly, too slowly or irregularly.

There are several options available to treat heart rhythm problems. First, patients must undergo testing to determine the type of arrhythmia. Then, a physician will guide a treatment plan based on symptoms, patient age and other factors.

Tests

Electrophysiology study (EPS)

An electrophysiology study (EPS) is a detailed study of the heart's electrical system and is done to investigate an abnormal heart rhythm (arrhythmia) .

Treatments

Cardioversion

Normal heart rhythm is restored using a defibrillator (electric cardioversion) or medications (pharmacologic cardioversion).

Catheter Ablation

A special catheter is used to deliver high-frequency energy to destroy a tiny portion of the problem heart tissue from the area of arrhythmia.

Pacemaker

This permanent therapy may be required if your heart has a problem conducting impulses from the upper to lower chambers.

Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD)

This device automatically monitors your heart rhythm and delivers a shock to restore the heart to a normal rhythm when an abnormality is detected.