The heart is an essential organ responsible for circulating blood throughout the body. The electrical signals that travel through its walls maintain the heart’s rhythm. Cardiac impulses are generated by specialised cells in the sinoatrial node. Electrophysiology studies these electrical signals and how they control the heart’s function. This article will discuss the basics of electrophysiology and how it is used to diagnose and treat heart conditions.
Finding an Electrophysiologist
If you have symptoms of a heart rhythm disorder, it is vital to seek medical attention from an experienced electrophysiologist in Sydney. They can perform the necessary tests and procedures to diagnose and treat your condition, helping you to achieve a healthy and active lifestyle.
To find an electrophysiologist in Sydney, you can start by requesting a referral from your primary care physician or cardiologist. You can also search online for electrophysiologists in your area. Look for electrophysiologists with experience treating your specific condition and positive patient reviews.
What do you mean by Electrophysiology?
It studies the electrical properties of cells and tissues in the body. In the heart, it is used to measure and map the electrical signals that control its rhythm. The first electrical recordings from the heart were made in 1887 by Augustus Waller, a British physiologist. Waller used a capillary electrometer to detect the heart’s electrical activity and discovered that the electrical signals could be measured on the skin’s surface.
In the early 1900s, Dutch physiologist Willem Einthoven developed the first electrocardiogram (ECG) machine. In the 1940s, John Hopps, a Canadian biomedical engineer, developed the first cardiac pacemaker.
In the 1960s, a group of researchers led by Samuel Bellet and Seymour Furman developed the first catheter-based electrophysiology procedure, called the His bundle catheterisation.
In the 1980s, catheter ablation was introduced as a treatment for arrhythmias. Today, electrophysiology continues to advance, with new techniques and technologies constantly being developed.
Electrophysiology Tests
Electrophysiology tests diagnose and treat various heart conditions, including arrhythmias, atrial fibrillation, and heart block. These tests include electrocardiograms (ECGs), Holter monitors, and event monitors. An electrophysiologist may also use a catheter-based test, such as an electrophysiology study (EPS), to evaluate the heart’s electrical signals in more detail.
Electrophysiology Procedures
Electrophysiologists use a range of procedures to treat cardiac disorders. These include catheter ablation, pacemaker implantation, and cardioversion. Catheter ablation is a mildly invasive procedure that uses a catheter to destroy the heart cells, causing an arrhythmia. Pacemaker implantation involves placing a small device under the skin that helps regulate the heart’s rhythm. Cardioversion is a procedure that uses electrical shocks to restore the heart’s rhythm.
The Role of an Electrophysiologist
An electrophysiologist is a medical doctor who specialises in diagnosing heart rhythm disorders. They use various tests and procedures to evaluate the heart’s electrical signals and develop a personalised treatment plan for each patient. Electrophysiologists work closely with other members of the cardiac care team to provide the best possible care for patients with heart rhythm disorders.
In conclusion, electrophysiology is a crucial area of cardiology that helps diagnose and treat a range of heart conditions. An electrophysiologist in Sydney can perform various tests and procedures to help maintain the health of your heart. Electrophysiology is a fascinating and essential field that plays a vital role in maintaining heart health.