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His bundle electrography
Definition:
His bundle electrography is a test that measures electrical activity in a part of the heart known as the bundle of His. The bundle of His is a group of fibers that carry an electrical impulse through the center of the heart to ensure the sequence of the heart's contractions. Alternative Names:
His electrogram Text Continues Below
How the test is performed:
His bundle electrography is part of an electrophysiology (EP) study. You are given a mild sedative prior to the test. An intravenous catheter (IV line) is started in your arm to allow for the administration of medication during the procedure. Electrocardiogram (ECG) leads are placed on your extremities. A cardiologist inserts a catheter through a small incision in a vein in your arm, neck, or groin after cleansing the site and numbing it with a local anesthetic. The catheter is then carefully threaded into the heart using an x-ray image technique called fluoroscopy to guide the insertion. Your heart is monitored by ECG for arrhythmias during catheter placement. The catheter, which is equipped with an electrode, then measures the electrical activity of the bundle of His. How to prepare for the test:
Food and fluid are restricted 6 to 8 hours before the test. The procedure takes place in a hospital. Sometimes you enter the hospital the night before the test. Otherwise, you enter as an outpatient or inpatient the morning of the procedure. Your health care provider will explain the procedure and its risks. His bundle electrography requires witnessed, signed consent prior to the procedure. About half an hour before the procedure, you receive a mild sedative. The procedure may last from 1 to several hours. You must wear hospital clothing.
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