AFib Care From Heart Rhythm Specialists Steady beats start here.
First Coast Cardiovascular Institute's electrophysiologists diagnose and treat AFib, palpitations and other rhythm problems, from medicine to ablation and Watchman. Call 904.493.3333.
- 012 heart rhythm specialists, both Fellows of the Heart Rhythm Society
- 02Pulsed field, radiofrequency and cryoballoon ablation
- 03Watchman and Amulet LAA closure
- 048 offices across NE Florida and South Georgia, 24/7 hospital coverage
Start with what you need.
01What AFib Is and How It's Treated
Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is the most common rhythm problem of the heart. It is treatable, and in certain patients a procedure called ablation can potentially cure it.
→
02Heart Palpitations and Irregular Beats
Palpitations are a racing, pounding, fluttering or skipping heartbeat. Many are harmless, but an irregular pulse can be a sign of AFib or another rhythm problem, so it is worth getting checked.
→
03Catheter Ablation for AFib
Ablation is a procedure that can potentially cure AFib in certain patients. Thin catheters are guided from the groin into the heart to treat the small areas that trigger the irregular rhythm.
→- 04
Watchman and LAA Closure for AFib
Left atrial appendage closure is a procedure that seals off a small pouch in the heart where AFib clots can form. FCCI's Director of Electrophysiology performs it with the Watchman and Amulet devices.
→ 
05Pacemakers, ICDs and Rhythm Devices
When the heart beats too slowly or is at risk for a dangerous rhythm, a small implanted device can help. FCCI's electrophysiologists place and care for pacemakers, ICDs and CRT devices.
→- 06
Meet Your Heart Rhythm Doctors
FCCI's electrophysiology team is led by Dr. Firas El Sabbagh, Director of Electrophysiology, with Dr. Deepak Kumar Pasupula. Both are Fellows of the Heart Rhythm Society (FHRS).
→
AFib is common, and it is treatable
Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is the most common rhythm problem of the heart. The top chambers twitch very fast instead of beating in a regular pattern, so the heartbeat becomes irregular. Most people tolerate it well, but it can lead to a stroke from a blood clot or weaken the heart muscle.
The good news: treatment works. Depending on your situation, your plan may include blood thinners, rhythm or rate medicines, a sleep apnea check, weight loss, and for certain patients an ablation that can potentially cure AFib.
Specialists who focus on your heart's rhythm
FCCI's electrophysiology team is led by Dr. Firas El Sabbagh, Director of Electrophysiology, with Dr. Deepak Kumar Pasupula. Both are Fellows of the Heart Rhythm Society. Together they offer:
- Pulsed field, radiofrequency and cryoballoon ablation
- Watchman and Amulet left atrial appendage closure
- Pacemakers, ICDs, CRT and conduction system pacing
- Device infection care and lead extraction
Real doctors, close to home.
Noticed an irregular heartbeat?
FCCI says you should be suspicious of AFib if your pulse feels irregular or your home blood pressure machine shows an irregular heartbeat. Write down when it happens and call 904.493.3333 to be seen.
Emergency? Don't wait on an appointment for chest pain, fainting, trouble breathing, or stroke signs such as face drooping, arm weakness or slurred speech. Call 911 now.
Close to home across the First Coast
FCCI has offices on the Southside, Westside, Northside, University Blvd, Mandarin/Fruit Cove, Orange Park, Palatka and Waycross, GA, and covers four HCA hospitals 24/7. It accepts most major insurance, including Medicare, Medicaid and Tricare.
Call 904.493.3333, Monday to Friday, 8AM to 5PM. New patients are welcome.
From the patient guide.
Who are the AFib doctors at FCCI?
Dr. Firas El Sabbagh, Director of Electrophysiology, and Dr. Deepak Kumar Pasupula, both Fellows of the Heart Rhythm Society.
Can AFib be cured?
FCCI says ablation can potentially cure AFib in certain patients. Your doctor will tell you if you are a candidate.
Does FCCI offer Watchman?
Yes. Dr. El Sabbagh is highly skilled in left atrial appendage occlusion with Watchman and Amulet.
Does FCCI take my insurance?
FCCI accepts most major plans, including Medicare. Call 904.493.3333 to check yours.
When should I call 911?
For chest pain, fainting, severe shortness of breath or stroke signs like face drooping, arm weakness or slurred speech.