EP + ABI

An Electrophysiology (EP) Study is a test to understand the way electrical signals move through your heart to make it beat. An EP study is used in people whose bodies produce ineffective or chaotic electrical signals that cause the heart to beat incorrectly. An EP study can also be used to predict the risk of sudden cardiac death.

Your doctor may recommend an EP study if you:

• Have an abnormal heart rhythm (arrhythmia).
• Are undergoing cardiac ablation.
• Experience a temporary loss of consciousness (syncope).
• Have a risk of sudden cardiac death.
• Are undergoing heart surgery.

The Ankle Brachial Index (ABI) test is a quick, noninvasive way to check your risk of peripheral artery disease (PAD). Peripheral artery disease is a condition in which the arteries in your legs or arms are narrowed or blocked. People with peripheral artery disease are at a high risk of heart attack, stroke, poor circulation and leg pain.

The Ankle Brachial Index test compares your blood pressure measured at your ankle with your blood pressure measured at your arm. A low Ankle Brachial Index number can indicate narrowing or blockage of the arteries in your legs, leading to circulatory problems, heart disease or stroke. The ankle-brachial index test is sometimes recommended as part of a series of three tests, including the carotid ultrasound and abdominal ultrasound, to check for blocked or narrowed arteries.

Ask your doctor if you should have this test if you are age 50 or older and have any of these risk factors for peripheral artery disease:

• Being a current or former smoker
• Diabetes
• Overweight (a body mass index of 25 or greater)
• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol