Electro­physiology

Our renowned consultants care for all arrythmias, from the common to the most complex, including:

• Atrial fibrillation (Afib)
• Atrial flutter
• Bradycardia
• Heart block
• Heart failure
• Premature atrial and ventricular contractions
• Sick sinus syndrome
• Sudden arrhythmic death syndrome (SADS)
• Tachycardia, including atrial, ventricular and supraventricular tachycardia

We also treat inherited heart rhythm diseases, including:

• Brugada syndrome
• Familial cardiomyopathies
• Long QT syndrome
• Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome

Diagnosing Heart Rhythm Disorders

Our consultants use the latest technology, including 3D electro-anatomical mapping, to diagnose heart rhythm problems. We create highly detailed maps of your heart to pinpoint the exact source of the arrhythmia. This enables us to provide more accurate, effective treatment.

We also offer advanced, noninvasive diagnostic services that help us make a rapid diagnosis, including cardiac monitoring devices that use artificial intelligence.

We’re committed to bringing you the newest, most effective innovations in arrhythmia care. Our cardiologists are well-versed in the latest pacing devices and minimally invasive treatments.

Catheter heart ablation

This minimally invasive, catheter-based procedure uses extreme heat (radiofrequency ablation) or extreme cold (cryoablation) to create small areas of scar tissue on your heart. These scars help stop the abnormal electrical impulses that cause irregular heartbeats. Ablation can reduce or eliminate arrhythmias without the need for major heart surgery.

Our team specialises in catheter ablation for ventricular tachycardia, which can reduce the frequency of ICD shocks.

We’re also one of the few private hospitals in the U.K. to offer Pulsed-Field Ablation (PFA). This alternative to traditional thermal ablation methods uses targeted electric fields, instead of extreme temperatures, to ablate problem heart tissue, disrupting the abnormal electrical pathways that cause atrial fibrillation.

Your consultant may recommend PFA if you have symptomatic Afib that has not responded well to medication. It may also be an option if you want a minimally invasive treatment option with potentially fewer extra-cardiac complications.

Leadless pacemakers

Leadless pacemakers are self-contained devices that we implant directly into your heart through a catheter in your vein or groin. They’re about 90% smaller than a traditional pacemaker and don’t need a separate battery or wires (leads) that go into your heart.

This minimally invasive approach means you won’t have an incision or scar on your chest. Leadless pacemakers aren’t visible under your skin, and they eliminate the potential complications associated with leads. We may recommend a pacemaker if you have a slow heartbeat or atrial fibrillation.

ICD implantation and management

An implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) monitors and corrects irregular heartbeats. It delivers a small electrical shock to your heart when your heart’s rhythm becomes dangerous. An ICD can help prevent sudden cardiac death if you have ventricular arrhythmia or heart failure.

At Cleveland Clinic London, we specialise in subcutaneous ICD (S-ICD) implantation. Unlike, a traditional ICD with leads that go through veins directly into your heart, the S-ICD has leads that go under your skin and don’t attach to your heart. It’s a less invasive procedure, and the leads are easier to remove.

Cardiac resynchronisation therapy

We may recommend cardiac resynchronisation therapy (CRT) if you have heart failure. This treatment helps the bottom chambers of your heart (ventricles) pump blood more efficiently. Our cardiologists can implant a biventricular pacemaker for CRT, which regulates both ventricles of your heart. If you’re at high risk of sudden cardiac death, we may suggest a device that also has a built-in ICD.

Lead extraction

Lead extraction is surgery to remove the leads from a pacemaker or ICD. We may need to remove the leads if you have an infection, lead damage or if the leads have moved out of place (dislodgement). If you need lead extraction, it’s essential to select a specialist with extensive experience performing this procedure.

At Cleveland Clinic London, our team of heart surgeons and electrophysiologists work together to perform this procedure using the most sophisticated imaging and surgical equipment. If necessary, we can transfer you directly to our dedicated cardiac surgery operating theatre or intensive care unit (ICU).

How Much Does Electrophysiology Care Cost at Cleveland Clinic London?

Our team will work with you and provide transparent cost estimates for your arrhythmia treatment and any additional recommended care. We offer self-pay services and accept private medical insurance.

Have questions? Please call on +44 20 3423 8900. Our payment specialists are happy to help. Learn more about the costs for specific diagnostic tests and procedures we offer.

What’s Next?

It can be unsettling when your heart races or feels like it’s skipping a beat. Abnormal heart rhythms can get in the way of your daily life, and some can be dangerous if not treated right away. Our industry-leading and internationally recognized cardiac electrophysiologists can help. We offer innovative treatment options, including minimally invasive heart ablation and cardiac device procedures. Throughout your care, we’re here for you — answering your questions and guiding you through each part of your treatment.

You may contact us for more information, including booking an appointment. For specific information about our heart, vascular or thoracic services you can also email the HVTI access team [email protected].