Heart rhythm problems can affect every part of life, whether the heart races, skips beats or slows down too much. These conditions, known as arrhythmias, can increase the risk of stroke or heart failure if left untreated. Now with the arrival of electrophysiology (EP) services at Sarah Bush Lincoln, patients in central Illinois can access advanced life-saving care close to home.
What is Electrophysiology?
Electrophysiology is a specialized field of cardiology that focuses on diagnosing and treating heart rhythm disorders. These can range from atrial fibrillation (Afib) and atrial flutter to supraventricular tachycardia (SVT), slow rhythms that may require pacemakers and dangerous ventricular arrhythmias that sometimes need defibrillators.
While medications can help, many patients benefit from advanced procedures like ablation, which targets abnormal electrical signals in the heart. Sarah Bush Lincoln now also offers pulsed field ablation, one of the newest technologies for treating Afib, which uses electrical fields to safely isolate problem areas while protecting nearby tissue. For patients at risk of stroke who cannot take long-term blood thinners, the Watchman device is another option now available.
Meet the Team Behind EP at SBL
Mohamed Labedi, MD, brings years of training and experience as a cardiologist and electrophysiologist. He is especially passionate about building EP services in rural areas so patients do not have to travel far for care. His philosophy centers on honesty, transparency and shared decision-making.
Abraham Kocheril, MD, a nationally recognized cardiologist and electrophysiologist, was a pioneer of early Afib ablation techniques in the 1990s. With decades of experience, he continues to participate in clinical trials and brings expertise in procedures such as laser lead extraction, advanced ablation technologies and cardiopulmonary exercise testing.
Bryce Yantis, APRN, a local native, returned home to join the cardiology team at SBL. He focuses on helping patients understand their conditions, navigate treatment options and follow through with care after procedures. He emphasizes that having EP locally means patients can be diagnosed and treated sooner often improving outcomes.
More Than Technology
While the technology is advanced, the SBL EP providers agree that heart rhythm care is about more than procedures. Lifestyle changes such as losing weight, exercising, eating a heart-healthy diet and quitting smoking can reduce the severity or frequency of arrhythmias. Even modest weight loss as little as 10% can significantly decrease Afib episodes. Wearable devices like smartwatches can also alert patients to irregular rhythms, but the most important step is to talk with a primary care provider if something feels off.
Advanced Care, Close to Home
Until now, many patients had to travel hours away for electrophysiology care. With Dr. Mohammed, Dr. Kocheril and Bryce Yantis, Sarah Bush Lincoln is proud to offer advanced heart rhythm services right here in central Illinois.
This new program is not only helping patients live longer and healthier lives but also ensuring they can receive compassionate care without leaving their community.
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