Meet our team

We are proud of our team-based approach at Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust. Our inherited cardiac conditions service has a team of specialists who are focused on giving the best possible information to patients and their families to help clarify the diagnosis and maximise the treatment options.

All patients are seen by a consultant with expertise in managing patients with inherited cardiac conditions. In addition, we have a dedicated team of liaison nurses to assist individuals with the practical aspects of living with inherited cardiac conditions.

Some of the key members of our team are introduced below.

Dr Amanda Varnava – consultant cardiologist
The inherited cardiac conditions service was established by Dr Amanda Varnava, who has a long-standing clinical and research interest in inherited cardiac diseases, particularly cardiomyopathy. With over 15 years’ experience in this field she is able to apply the results of the very latest worldwide research on cardiovascular disease to the care that she provides for patients.
• Read Dr Varnava's profile on our consultant directory
• Read an article featuring an interview with Dr Varnava in the Times

Dr Kay MacDermot – consultant in clinical genetics
The service is supported by Dr Kay MacDermot, who is able to counsel patients and their families and where appropriate, organise genetic testing.

Dr Mary Sheppard – consultant cardiac pathologist
Dr Mary Sheppard is recognised internationally for her interest in inherited cardiac conditions. Her team provide specialist pathological services and advice, meaning they help diagnose and provide information about inherited cardiac conditions by examining biopsies and samples of bodily fluids such as blood. The team also provide prompt specialist heart examinations.

Dr Jan Till - consultant paediatric electrophysiologist
Dr Jan Till is a consultant paediatric electrophysiologist at Royal Brompton and Harefield NHS Foundation Trust. She has extensive experience of electrical problems of the heart, including channelopathies, particularly in children and young adults.

Andrea Grieger - arrhythmia nurse
Andrea Grieger is an experienced arrhythmia nurse with a special interest in inherited cardiac conditions. Andrea acts as a liaison between all other members of the team and is available from 09.00 to 17.00, Monday to Friday, for patients to contact her with problems or enquiries.

Imaging and cardiac devices
We have state-of-the-art imaging techniques available, including cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). We also have experts who specialise in the electrical function of the heart and the devices that can be used to treat problems with the heart’s rhythm, such as internal cardiac defibrillators (ICDs), in both adults and children. Our experts include:
• Professor Nick Peters
• Dr Prapa Kanagaratnam
• Dr Wyn Davies
• Dr David Lefroy
• Dr Jan Till

Psychological support
Our clinical psychologist provides psychological support to our patients and their families, and is experienced in dealing with the psychological impact of inherited cardiac diseases.