Electrophysiology Ablation and Pacing

Electrophysiology studies, which are used to diagnose the origin of some of these rhythm abnormalities, involve the insertion of recording electrodes into the heart via a vein in the groin under X Ray guidance.

The Heart Trust has, since 1980, sponsored several generations of Electrophysiology equipment at Waikato Hospital. In 1997 the availability of this equipment meant Waikato Hospital was able to recruit Dr Spencer Heald from London. Dr Heald was very experienced in electrophysiology and advanced pacemakers. Dr Heald, along with Dr McAlister carried out the hospital’s first intracardiac ablation procedure, using the equipment provided by The Heart Trust

In 2008, the Heart Trust, in conjunction with the DHB, purchased a computerised mapping system that is able to create a rhythm map of the inside of the heart, sufficiently accurate to allow Ablation, or “spot welding” of the parts of the heart causing atrial fibrillation, which is the most common heart rhythm abnormality.  With the availability of this technology, Waikato hospital was able to recruit Dr Martin Stiles to head the Electrophysiology Service.

Under Dr (now Prof) Stiles’ leadership, and with the support of The Heart Trust, Waikato Hospital has become a leading centre for Electrophysiology and Ablation. Patients in the Midland region have access to world class treatment for heart rhythm problems.

Prof Stiles has a world-wide reputation in Electrophysiology and is involved in ground-breaking research into use of pacemakers in heart failure. Prof Stiles’ presence at Waikato has attracted other specialists, so that patients in the Midland region now have access to one of NZ’s leading centres in Electrophysiology, Ablation and pacing. This would never have happened without the support of The Heart Trust,