ATRIAL FIBRILLATION AFTER CORONARY ARTERY BYPASS GRAFTING SURGERY

Abstract

AF is the most common complication after bypass surgery. Coronary bypass surgery is performed on over 400,000 patients each year in the United States. The significance of its occurrence lies not only in the potentially dangerous and physiologic derangement to patients, but also in its impact on the utilization of health care resources.

Several clinical observations suggest that the occurrence of AF after bypass surgery has some unique features related to the preoperative circumstances. Numerous therapies, both pharmacologic and non­ pharmacologic have been tested to prevent this tenacious problem. Its persistence continues to intrigue cardio-thoracic surgeons, cardiologists, anesthesiologists and the insurers alike.

This generally benign problem can increase surgical morbidity, and the cost and length of hospital stay. If not treated promptly and effectively, AF between the second and fifth postoperative can delay a full and rapid recovery. AF usually occurs in paroxysms day and appears directly related to the effects of surgery (pericarditis, changes in autonomic tone, cardioplegia, myocardial damage, fluid shifts, etc.).