What to Expect - Electrophysiology Study
The Electrophysiology (EP) team can examine your child’s heart to identify—and in some cases, treat—abnormal pathways in the electrical system of the heart. EP studies are done under anesthesia and attended by pediatric anesthesiologists to ensure your child is safe and comfortable the whole time.
Pre-admission testing
If your child requires an electrophysiology (EP) study, you will likely have a pre-admission testing (PAT) appointment the week before your procedure. Pre-admission testing for an EP study usually includes:
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A thorough medical history and physical exam by our nurse practitioner team
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Any lab work your doctor has requested, such as blood tests
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Any other tests or studies your doctor has requested, such as an EKG, echocardiogram, ultrasound, etc.
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Education about the procedure and what to expect before, during and after the EP study
Day of EP procedure
The day of the procedure, you will arrive to Same Day Surgery (SDS) where your child will be checked in and placed with you in a private room. You will meet with your electrophysiologist to discuss the procedure and answer any questions you have. You will also meet with the anesthesiologist who will be caring for your child.
These procedures can vary in length and last anywhere from 2-6 hours.
Your child’s nursing team will keep you updated by phone throughout the procedure. In addition to these personal updates, the EASE app provides secure, live text message updates from your child’s care team during their procedure. This allows you and any family members or friends that you designate to hear how your child is doing during the EP study and provides peace of mind while you’re in the waiting room.
After the procedure, your electrophysiologist will meet with you to discuss the findings and any treatments performed during the procedure. Many children can go home the same day or the following morning after the procedure. Before you leave, your care team will go over instructions for caring for your child while they recover.
For more information about what to expect the day of your child’s procedure, visit our Same Day Surgery section.
Planning for Surgery
From free valet parking at the front door to personalized follow-up care during your child’s recovery, we want every aspect of your experience at Children’s Mercy to be beyond your expectations.
Read about how to prepare your child for scheduled surgery, what to expect when you arrive, and resources available while you’re here.
Heart Center - Follow up care
After the procedure, your child’s care team will continue to see them in our Cardiology clinic for follow-up care. We will remain with you every step of the way.