When most people think of heart doctors, they imagine cardiologists treating blocked arteries or heart attacks. But there is another equally important type of heart doctor — a cardiac electrophysiologist. If you’ve been referred to a cardiac electrophysiologist in Singapore, it usually means your doctor suspects an issue with your heart’s electrical system.
This guide explains what a cardiac electrophysiologist does, the conditions they treat, the procedures they perform, and what patients in Singapore should know before consulting one.
What Is a Cardiac Electrophysiologist?
A cardiac electrophysiologist is a type of cardiologist who focuses on finding and treating arrhythmias, which are irregular heartbeats. General cardiologists treat a wide range of heart problems. Electrophysiologists, on the other hand, only treat problems with the heart’s “electrical wiring.”
Heart electrophysiologists in Singapore may be the best people to check to see if your heart beats too fast, too slow, or not at all. A lot of high-tech tests and treatments are used to get the rhythm back to normal and stop problems like strokes and sudden cardiac death.
When Should You See a Cardiac Electrophysiologist in Singapore?
You may be referred to a heart rhythm specialist if you experience symptoms such as:
- Palpitations (fluttering or pounding heartbeat)
- Dizziness or fainting spells without a clear explanation
- Shortness of breath during rest or exertion
- Atrial fibrillation (AFib) diagnosed by your cardiologist
- Family history of sudden cardiac death or inherited arrhythmias
As the number of specialized heart centers in Singapore grows, patients can get care in modern facilities with skilled electrophysiologists who can test and treat them.
Conditions Treated by a Cardiac Electrophysiologist in Singapore
There are a lot of different types of heart rate problems that electrophysiologists can fix. Here are some of the most common:
1. Atrial Fibrillation (AFib)
The most common arrhythmia in the world is AFib, which is also the leading cause of strokes. To successfully treat AFib, a cardiac electrophysiologist in Singapore might suggest medicines, changes to your lifestyle, or ablation procedures.
2. Supraventricular Tachycardia (SVT)
SVT causes sudden episodes of rapid heartbeat that can be frightening. Many patients benefit from catheter ablation, which can cure the condition permanently.
3. Ventricular Tachycardia (VT)
VT originates in the lower chambers of the heart and is potentially life-threatening. Specialists in Singapore often use implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs), medications, or ablation therapy to prevent cardiac arrest.
4. Bradycardia
If your heart rate is too slow, you might need a pacemaker. Singaporean hospitals and clinics offer a range of pacemakers, including standard ones with leads and ones without them.
5. Hereditary Heart Conditions
A thorough evaluation is required for conditions such as Brugada Syndrome and Long QT Syndrome. Genetic testing and family screenings are services offered by several cardiac electrophysiologists in Singapore.
Procedures Performed by Cardiac Electrophysiologists in Singapore
If you are referred to a cardiac electrophysiologist in Singapore, you may undergo one or more of these procedures:
- Electrophysiology (EP) Study – Mapping the heart’s electrical activity with catheters.
- Catheter Ablation – Using heat or cold energy to eliminate abnormal rhythm pathways.
- Pacemaker Implantation – Inserting a device that helps regulate slow heartbeats.
- Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD) – A device that shocks the heart back to normal rhythm during life-threatening arrhythmias.
- Heart Rhythm Monitoring – Through Holter monitors, event recorders, or wearable devices.
Singapore’s leading heart hospitals offer minimally invasive treatments, robotic assistance, and technology that enables doctors to map hearts in three dimensions. Since these things are present, the treatments are safer and go more quickly.
Lifestyle Guidance from a Cardiac Electrophysiologist in Singapore
Heart rhythm specialists in Singapore do more than just perform treatments; they also counsel patients on how to manage their arrhythmias and implanted devices healthily and comfortably.
- Exercise: Most patients can exercise normally, though high-intensity sports may need clearance.
- Diet: Reducing caffeine, alcohol, and salty foods helps some patients avoid arrhythmia triggers.
- Sleep: Rhythm stability can be improved by the treatment of sleep apnea.
- Daily life with devices: Most gadgets are safe for pacemakers and ICDs, but strong magnets and airport scanners may need extra care.
- Follow-ups: Regular check-ups are crucial for device adjustments and arrhythmia monitoring.
Future of Cardiac Electrophysiology in Singapore
In terms of the implementation of cutting-edge medical technologies, Singapore is at the forefront, and cardiac electrophysiology is no exception. Patients today benefit from:
- Leadless Pacemakers – smaller devices implanted directly in the heart.
- 3D Mapping Technology – more precise ablations with fewer complications.
- Robotic-assisted Ablation – improving safety and accuracy.
- Artificial Intelligence (AI) in ECG analysis enables faster and more accurate diagnosis.
- Genetic Testing Programs – offered at specialized centers for inherited heart rhythm disorders.
This means that seeking a cardiac electrophysiologist in Singapore gives patients access not only to expert care but also to cutting-edge innovation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- What is the difference between a cardiologist and a cardiac electrophysiologist?
A cardiologist treats all types of heart disease, while a cardiac electrophysiologist in Singapore focuses only on heart rhythm disorders. - How long does a catheter ablation take?
The duration of the treatment is typically between two and four hours, and most patients go home within 1 to 2 days. - Are pacemakers and ICDs safe around smartphones?
Yes, modern devices are well-protected. Just avoid placing your phone directly over the device. - Do all patients with arrhythmias need ablation or a device?
Not always. Some arrhythmias can be controlled with medication and lifestyle changes. - How do I find the right cardiac electrophysiologist in Singapore?
You and your cardiologist should both look for specialists who work with big hospitals or heart centers. You should also ask your cardiologist to consider referring you to these specialists.
Final Thoughts
A cardiac electrophysiologist may not be the first type of heart doctor you think of, but their work is vital. From treating atrial fibrillation to preventing sudden cardiac arrest with life-saving devices, they play a crucial role in modern heart care.
If you or a loved one has been advised to see a cardiac electrophysiologist in Singapore, understanding their role is the first step toward better heart health. With Singapore’s reputation for world-class medical care and innovation, patients can feel confident they are in good hands.
–
Cadence Heart – Dr Devinder Singh
Mt Elizabeth Hospital
3 Mount Elizabeth #14-13
Mt Elizabeth Medical Centre
Singapore 228510
Tel: (65) 8318 9884
Whatsapp: (65) 6369 8789
