Atrial Fibrillation Following Surgical Management of Ischemic Heart Disease; One Year, Single Center, Single Surgeon Results

Abstract

Introduction: Postoperative atrial fibrillation is the most common arrhythmia following bypass surgery with significant morbidity, mortality and increased healthcare costs. The aim of this study is to determine the incidence and timing of atrial fibrillation, identify the risk factors covering preoperative and intraoperative periods, evaluate rate of return to sinus rhythm by disharge, and explore the impact on postoperative outcomes in a large group of patients operated in a single center by a single surgeon. Patients and Methods: Between January 2011 and January 2012, 418 patients on preoperative sinus rhythm were operated for ischemic heart disease and associated complications (left ventricle aneurysm repair and ischemic mitral insufficiency) in a single center, by a single surgeon. The preoperative, intraoperative and postoperative variables were studied. Results: The mean age of the patients were 61.92 ± 10.05, and 77.5% were male. Atrial fibrillation developed in 68 (16.3%) patients. The incidence peaked at second day. Patients with atrial fibrillation were older (p< 0.001). Gender, preoperative comorbidities, ejection fraction, left atrial diameter, preoperative beta-blocker use, leukocyte count, type of operation and intraoperative variables did not affect its occurence. Intensive care unit and hospital length of stay were longer (p< 0.05). 95.5% (n= 65) of patients were in normal sinus rhythm at discharge. Conclusion: Postoperative atrial fibrillation is a popular subject with unknowns and controversial results which may lead to wrong interpretations. We believe that every center has its own risk factors related with the population of that region. Discussion will last, but simple precautions and close monitoring will help to minimize adverse outcomes.