Electrophysiology

Solution for an Irregular Heartbeat

Your heartbeats are regulated by electrical impulses that signal the heart to beat in a certain rhythm. When that cardiac conduction system malfunctions, the heart can beat too fast (tachycardia) or in an abnormal pattern, or present other heart attack symptoms. 

Cardiologists at Bassett Healthcare Network often rely on electrophysiology procedures to correct an irregular heartbeat, such as arrhythmia or atrial fibrillation (AFib). 

Electrophysiology Treatments

Cardiac electrophysiology procedures and devices include:

• Cardioversion, which utilizes an external device that sends mild electric shocks to your heart to adjust your heartbeat
• Pacemaker implantation, when a device implanted under your skin sends electrical impulses to your heart tissue, thus regulating your heartbeat
• Radiofrequency ablation, which uses heat to selectively eliminate heart cells that are causing your electrical system to send the wrong signals
• Transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE), an exam that uses soundwaves to produce an image of your heart
• Defibrillator (AED), a device that keeps your heart from dangerous irregular heart rhythm, and can restore beating if the heart suddenly stops
• Electrocardiogram (EKG), which measures the electrical activity of the heart when it is at rest
• Holter Monitoring, which involves sensors on your skin connected to a device that records your heart’s activity
• Cryoablation, a procedure that freezes heart tissue to stop abnormal heart rhythms, such as atrial fibrillation

Cardiac Electrophysiology 

Our heart specialists perform most electrophysiology procedures at our hospitals. After undergoing an electrophysiology treatment at Bassett Healthcare Network, you can expect to recover quickly. Your chest might feel slightly sore for several days, and you may need to clean and dress your incision until it heals. Your cardiology team will provide you with detailed instructions, including recommended activity levels for the weeks following your procedure.

Get a Referral for an Electrophysiology Test

Electrophysiology can permanently resolve heartbeat problems, such as AFib, and greatly improve your quality of life. If you have an irregular heartbeat, or palpitations, contact your primary care physician or practitioner for a referral to the heart care team at Bassett Healthcare Network.

Bassett Healthcare Network offers electrophysiology in Central New York, including its hospitals in Cooperstown, Oneonta, Herkimer, Little Falls, Cobleskill, and beyond.