Have you ever had concerns with your heartbeat? A cardiac electrophysiologist just might be the health care provider that treats you. Siva Soma, M.D., cardiac electrophysiologist with Oklahoma Heart Institute, answers some questions about his field and how it can impact you.
• What does a cardiac electrophysiologist do?
A cardiac electrophysiologist specializes in the treatment of heart rhythm disorders, abnormal rhythms from the heart’s electrical system.
• What is the difference between cardiology and cardiac electrophysiology?
Cardiology is a branch of medicine that deals with disorders of the heart and the cardiovascular system. Cardiac electrophysiologist is a type of cardiologist who specializes in the management of heart rhythm disorders.
• Why do I need an electrophysiology?
Your cardiologist or primary care doctor may refer you to a cardiac electrophysiologist for management of abnormal heart rhythms or heart rhythm disorders.
• What can I expect at an electrophysiologist?
They have expertise in the diagnosis and management of heart rhythm disorders. Some of the common heart rhythm disorders include atrial fibrillation (Afib), atrial flutter and supra ventricular tachycardia, premature ventricular contractions and ventricular tachycardia. Cardiac electrophysiologists perform procedures like electrophysiology study and cardiac ablation for diagnosing and treating the above mentioned heart rhythm disorders. They also implant pacemakers and defibrillators for management of slow and fast rhythms in the heart.