Preventing atrial fibrillation after cardiac surgery: a single-institution cohort study after implementation of a standardized preventative protocol.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Postoperative atrial fibrillation (POAF) is the most common complication after cardiac surgery and leads to increased morbidity and mortality. Prophylaxis strategies have been identified; however, no set preventive algorithm has been established. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy of a POAF-prevention algorithm.

Methods

The POAF-prevention algorithm was implemented in April of 2023. Algorithm use began in concurrence with initiating placement of active-clearance chest tubes in most patients undergoing cardiac surgery. Postoperatively, patients were admitted to the cardiovascular intensive care unit, and all patients were started on AAI (atrial pacing, atrial sensing, inhibition response to sensing) epicardial pacing, if able, for 24 hours. High-risk patients

SUBMITTER: Amos J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12433058 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature