Interventional Electrophysiology Unit

Presentation

The Interventional Electrophysiology Unit specialises in the diagnosis and treatment of heart rhythm disorders. Clinical activity is the fundamental aspect of the Unit, but both clinical and basic research activities are also carried out, individually (single centre) and in collaboration with other groups of researchers, as well as training activities for specialists in the field.

The Unit consists of 5 doctors and 9 nurses.

The work is carried out:
1 – in the electrophysiology room, with regard to the interventional activity;
2 – in clinics, for the clinical assessment and follow-up of patients with suspected or documented arrhythmic diseases, and for outpatient check-ups after interventional procedures;
3 – check-ups of implanted devices, both on an outpatient basis and by remote monitoring.

The Interventional Electrophysiology Unit deals in particular with:

1 – outpatient assessment of patients with problems related to heart rhythm disorders:

• for acquired arrhythmias;
• for genetically determined arrhythmias in collaboration with the Molecular Genetics Unit laboratory;

2 – Implantations of pacemakers and defibrillators from the simplest, such as single-chamber, to those of greater complexity, such as triple-chamber for the electrical treatment of heart failure, working hand in hand with the Heart Failure Unit;

3 – Leadless cardiac stimulator implantation;

4 – Implantation of solid memory electrocardiogram recorders for the diagnosis and control of arrhythmias;

5 – Ablations of all types of arrhythmias:

A – using the traditional technique;
B – using three-dimensional electroanatomical mapping;
C – by means of a mapping system, which avoids the use of ionising radiation during the procedure (zero radiation procedures).

It should also be noted that both supraventricular and ventricular arrhythmias are treated by ablation: supraventricular paroxysmal tachycardia; atrial flutter; atrial fibrillation; supraventricular and ventricular extrasystoles; ventricular tachycardia.
The energy used to carry out ablation may vary depending on the indications:

1 – Radiofrequency;
2 – Cryo-energy.