An electrophysiologist (often called an EP) is a cardiologist with extra training in the heart's electrical system. They diagnose and treat rhythm problems like AFib, SVT and ventricular arrhythmias, and they perform procedures such as ablation and pacemaker placement. If your heart rhythm is the problem, an EP is the specialist to see.
Your heart's wiring
Think of your heart as a pump with its own wiring. Electrical signals tell the chambers when to squeeze. When those signals misfire, the rhythm goes off. FCCI describes electrophysiology as the field that focuses on heart rhythm (arrhythmia) disorders that can affect the body's ability to effectively pump blood.
What an EP does
- Finds out which rhythm problem you have using EKGs, monitors and other tests
- Manages rhythm with medicine
- Performs catheter ablation to treat the spots that cause an abnormal rhythm
- Implants pacemakers, ICDs and CRT devices
- Performs left atrial appendage closure for some AFib patients
- Manages device infections and lead extraction
Meet FCCI's electrophysiologists
Dr. Firas El Sabbagh, MD, FHRS joined FCCI in 2019 as Director of Electrophysiology and holds the same role at HCA Florida Orange Park Hospital. He is board-certified in cardiac electrophysiology, cardiovascular disease and echocardiography. He specializes in pacemakers, ICDs and CRT, is highly skilled in Watchman and Amulet procedures, and performs catheter ablation with radiofrequency and cryoballoon techniques. He also proctors and mentors junior cardiologists across the country.
Dr. Deepak Kumar Pasupula, MD, MPH, FACC, FHRS trained in clinical cardiac electrophysiology at Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville. He is well-trained in pulsed field ablation, proficient with radiofrequency ablation and conduction system pacing, and manages AFib, ventricular arrhythmias and SVT. He also has a keen interest in device infections and lead extraction.
What does FHRS mean?
FHRS stands for Fellow of the Heart Rhythm Society. Both of FCCI's electrophysiologists carry it after their names. It signals a focus on the field of heart rhythm care.
When to see an EP
You might be referred to an EP if you have:
- AFib or another diagnosed arrhythmia
- Palpitations that keep coming back
- Fainting spells that might be rhythm-related
- A slow heart rate that may need a pacemaker
- Questions about ablation or Watchman
Some insurance plans need a referral first, so check when you call.
How an EP works with your other doctors
Seeing an EP does not mean leaving your regular cardiologist or primary care doctor. Your EP focuses on the rhythm, while your other doctors keep caring for blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes and the rest of your health. At FCCI, electrophysiology sits alongside cardiovascular medicine, interventional cardiology, echocardiography, nuclear cardiology, vascular care and sleep medicine, so your care team can share information inside one practice. That can mean fewer repeat tests and less time spent explaining your history again.
What to expect at an EP visit
Expect plenty of questions about your symptoms and history, a review of your EKGs and monitor results, and a frank talk about options. Bring your medicine list and any device readings.
Getting care at FCCI
FCCI's electrophysiologists, Dr. Firas El Sabbagh and Dr. Deepak Kumar Pasupula, are part of a practice with offices across Jacksonville plus Orange Park, Palatka and Waycross, and its doctors cover four HCA hospitals 24/7. Most major plans, including Medicaid of Florida, are accepted.
Whether you need an electrophysiologist is something your own doctor can help you decide.
Ready to meet an electrophysiologist? Reach FCCI at 904.493.3333, Monday through Friday from 8AM to 5PM, or request a visit online with only your name and phone.
