Incidence, Risk Factors, and Impact of ATRIAL FIBRILLATION AFTER CARDIAC Surgery on Patients Outcome: A Retrospective Study

Abstract

Atrial fibrillation represents a common complication after coronary artery bypass and valvular surgery, although it is a benign arrhythmia it may contribute to the morbidity, high cost and prolonged ICU stay. This study was done on 277 patients underwent CABG and valvular surgery at National Heart Institute. Medical files of the patients were reviewed, all clinical data and laboratory data were collected. Preoperative data included age, gender, history of diabetes mellitus, history of hypertension and history of smoking. Furthermore preoperative echocardiography data were reviewed e.g: ejection fraction and left atrium diameter. Intraoperative data included type of surgery, duration of bypass and cross clamping. Postoperative data included use of inotropic agents, renal function, liver function, serum potassium and sodium level, Hb level and WBCs count, method of termination of POAF. Our results show that age, history of hypertension and smoking and history of renal impairment were a predictor of atrial fibrillation after cardiac surgery. Also type of surgery was an important predictor of POAF with the highest incidence observed with combined CABG and valvular surgery.