When it comes to matters of the heart, especially concerning irregular heartbeats or arrhythmias, expertise and experience are paramount. Douglas Gibson, MD, stands out as a leading Gibson Doctor, specializing in the advanced treatment of heart rhythm disorders at Scripps Clinic. His dedication to providing cutting-edge care and improving patient outcomes makes him a distinguished figure in the field of cardiac electrophysiology.
Dr. Gibson’s primary focus is on patients suffering from a range of arrhythmias, including atrial fibrillation (AFib), supraventricular tachycardia (SVT), and ventricular tachycardia (VT). He is highly skilled in catheter ablation, a minimally invasive procedure that precisely targets and eliminates the abnormal heart cells responsible for causing these rhythm disturbances. This procedure offers patients a chance to restore a normal heart rhythm and improve their quality of life.
Beyond ablation, Dr. Gibson is also an expert in left atrial appendage occlusion (LAAO). This innovative, minimally invasive procedure provides a significant benefit for AFib patients at risk of stroke. By closing off the left atrial appendage, where blood clots are most likely to form in AFib patients, Dr. Gibson helps patients safely reduce or eliminate their reliance on blood-thinning medications, mitigating the risks associated with long-term anticoagulation. Furthermore, his expertise extends to the implantation of various cardiac devices, including pacemakers, internal defibrillators, and biventricular defibrillators, ensuring comprehensive care for patients with diverse needs.
Dr. Gibson is not only a dedicated clinician but also a committed researcher. He actively conducts clinical research focused on advancing the treatment of cardiac arrhythmias and exploring alternatives to blood thinners for AFib patients. His patients benefit directly from his research involvement, gaining access to groundbreaking technologies and treatments that are often not widely available. Notably, Dr. Gibson was a key investigator in clinical trials for the Watchman device, a leading LAAO technology. He has also contributed to the development and testing of advanced ablation techniques, consistently pushing the boundaries of cardiac electrophysiology.
Dr. Gibson’s extensive training includes internal medicine, general cardiology, and two additional years of specialized training in cardiac electrophysiology. He is a distinguished Fellow of the Heart Rhythm Society, reflecting his expertise and contributions to the field. Currently, he serves as the Director of the Cardiac Electrophysiology Laboratory at Scripps Clinic and Co-Director of the Section of Electrophysiology, demonstrating his leadership and influence within his institution. Adding to his commitment to advancing the field, he directs an annual conference that brings together leading experts to discuss and refine the treatment of cardiovascular disorders.
Throughout his distinguished career, Dr. Gibson has received numerous accolades, including being recognized as a Top Doctor by the San Diego County Medical Society. He was also honored with a service excellence award from the Health Network Foundation, a testament to his commitment to patient care.
Dr. Gibson’s patient care philosophy centers on a coordinated, cohesive, and compassionate approach. He emphasizes the privilege of working within the comprehensive Scripps Health system, collaborating with a team of skilled physicians, nurses, administrators, and support staff to deliver exceptional care to each patient. For those seeking a Gibson doctor who combines expertise, innovation, and a patient-centered approach, Douglas Gibson, MD, at Scripps Clinic, represents the pinnacle of cardiac electrophysiology care.
