Electrophysiology Study (EPS)

You will return from the Electrophysiology Laboratory with a pressure dressing over your groin. 

If you have any pain, please inform your nurse so you can be given enough painkillers.

You will be asked to remain in bed and to rest for 4 to 6 hours after the procedure. Your nurse will take regular measurements of your pulse and blood pressure during this time.

After that, and once the staff are satisfied that the groin site will no longer bleed, the pressure dressing will be removed.

Discharge times varies, but is often the following day unless you need to take warfarin (a medication to thin your blood) - in that case, your hospital stay may be prolonged by a few days to ensure that your blood is sufficiently thinned out. (Measuring the INR level).

You may feel fatigue or chest discomfort during the first 48 hours after the procedure. Please tell your doctor or nurse if any of these symptoms are prolonged or severe. You may experience skipped heartbeats or short episodes of atrial fibrillation after the procedure. After your heart has healed, these abnormal heartbeats should subside. 

Generally, recovery after EPS is very fast. We normally advise avoidance of heavy lifting (>10 pounds) for the first 10 days while your the groin puncture site heals.

You should expect to resume normal activities by 2 weeks, unless your doctor advises you specifically otherwise.

Depending on the procedure and your circumstances, you may be asked to continue taking certain medications. Your doctor will advise you on the appropriate medications to take.

Depending on the abnormal rhythm and the procedure performed, your next appointment with your doctor may range from one week to 3 months post-discharge. Your doctor will arrange follow-up prior to your discharge.