• Electrophysiology Study is a procedure which examines the heart’s electrical signals and electrical pathways. It is used to investigate the cause and location of any abnormal electrical activities that lead to irregular heart rhythms. The results of the electrophysiology study are displayed in 3-dimensional graphic images, facilitating accurate diagnosis and enabling doctors to choose the proper treatment. After completing this diagnostic study, the doctors can also administer treatment immediately by applying radiofrequency waves during the same session. 

High-energy radiofrequency is used to eliminate the abnormality from which the irregular heartbeat originates. This is achieved by inserting a catheter into the heart so that the radiofrequency waves can be delivered with great precision to the exact area of the abnormal electrical activity.

 

• Radiofrequency Ablation with the CARTO system is a treatment technique which uses real-time 3-dimensional maps to locate and eliminate the abnormal electrical activity. A catheter and radiofrequency waves are used to destroy the pathways causing the abnormal heart rhythm. This technique is effective in treating a wide variety of abnormal electrical activities such as:
  • Irregular heartbeat of the upper chambers (atrial tachycardia) 
  • Quivering heartbeat of the upper chambers (atrial fibrillation)
  • Rapid heartbeat of the lower chambers (ventricular tachycardia)
  • Rapid heartbeat of the upper chambers (supraventricular tachycardia)
• A Pacemaker is a small electronic device to help regulate the heart rhythm. The pacemaker is placed under the skin near the collarbone with a lead extending from the device to the heart. The lead allows the device to control and increase the heart rate. It is used to treat a slow heart rate. 
• An Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD) is similar to a pacemaker. The ICD is implanted under the skin with a lead extending from the device to the heart. If the device detects a rhythm that is too slow, it will stimulate the heartbeat. When the heart beats too quickly and the patient’s life is threatened, the ICD will restore a normal heart rate to save the patient’s life.   
• Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy (CRT) is similar to the implantation of a pacemaker or ICD. A cardiac resynchronization device is implanted under the skin to treat chronic heart failure when drug treatment has proven ineffective. The implanted device enables the heart muscle to function properly.

The Cardiac Electrophysiology Lab (EP Lab) at Bumrungrad Hospital is well-equipped with the most advanced medical equipment and technology for the diagnosis and treatment of arrhythmia(irregular heartbeat), including the following equipment:

• The CARTO system is computer-aided technology which creates 3-dimensional images of cardiac structures and electrical signals. Areas are color-coded according to the electrogram voltage. By creating a variety of specific images, the system enables doctors to identify the exact location of abnormalities and choose the most appropriate treatment. Using the CARTO system, doctors can provide highly effective treatment by applying radiofrequency waves at the precise location of the heart where the abnormality is present. A CARTO system is used in conjunction with the following medical equipment:
  • CARTOSOUND is an ultrasound image system which uses software to create 3-dimensional graphic images. Cartosound enhances the doctors’ ability to see cardiac structures and locate abnormalities.
  • Computer x-ray
  • A mapping system which operates on similar principles to GPS promotes accurate diagnosis and treatment.
  • Various software applications such as CFAEs (complex fractionated atrial electrocardiograms) are available to generate more specific images according to the different types of abnormalities experienced by each patient. 

During the diagnosis or treatment, the CARTO system generates real-time 3-dimensional maps enabling the doctors to provide treatment at the precise location of the abnormality.

• The radiofrequency ablation system enhances the success of ablation through the use of temperature-controlled energy delivery and a cooled-tip catheter.

As the Cardiac Electrophysiology Lab is designated as a surgical operating room, the lab is disinfected. A laminar airflow system is used, and a HEPA filter is applied to remove microorganisms. Whenever necessary, surgery can be performed immediately in the Cardiac Electrophysiology Lab.

Our team of medical professionals in the Cardiac Electrophysiology Lab work closely together to achieve the best treatment results for every patient. The team includes the following specialists:

• Cardiac electrophysiology specialists
• Cardiac electrophysiology nurse practitioners
• Radio-technologists
• Medical technologists in the Cardiac Electrophysiology Lab