Electrophysiology (EP) is the study, and treatment, of disorders of the electrical, or conduction, system of the heart (see Figure).
The EP service at UNMH is staffed by UNM-affiliated faculty members from the New Mexico Heart Institute, a cardiology fellow and trained nurse practitioner. In-and out-patient consultative services are available on a 24 x 7 basis. Treatment of patients with electrophysiologic disorders often requires specific medications, invasive procedures, or both. Following institution of treatment, patients are followed in our EP clinic and their care is coordinated with their other providers.
UNMH is building state-of-the art facilities for the invasive diagnosis and treatment of complex heart rhythm disorders. Among such treatments currently available are ablation for tachyarrhythmias (fast heart rates) and the placement of inter-cardiac pacing devices for the management of complex and/or life-threatening arrhythmias. In addition, pacing modalities for patients with advanced heart failure are currently available.
The EP service is a growing and vital part of overall cardiovascular services within the division. It is anticipated that additional faculty will be recruited within the next several years in order to meet the expanding needs of our most complex, and aging, patients.
