title: Management of postoperative atrial fibrillation.
abstract: Atrial fibrillation is a common complication of heart surgery. Consequences for the patient who develops this dysrhythmia are many. It prolongs hospitalization, may induce hemodynamic compromise, and carries the risks of thromboembolism and stroke. Ongoing research for the past 30 years has identified several potential etiologies; therefore, management must be highly individualized. This article reviews current and past research on postoperative atrial fibrillation with a focus on individualized prevention and treatment of this problematic heart surgery complication.
authors.affiliation: Department of Physiological Nursing, University of California, San Francisco, USA.
authors.forename: L S
authors.initials: LS
authors.lastname: Kern
mesh_terms: D000319:Adrenergic beta-Antagonists / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D000889:Anti-Arrhythmia Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D001281:Atrial Fibrillation / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000209:etiology / Q000451:nursing; D001026:Coronary Artery Bypass / Q000009:adverse effects*; D006801:Humans; D011183:Postoperative Complications / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000209:etiology / Q000451:nursing
chemical_list: D000319:Adrenergic beta-Antagonists; D000889:Anti-Arrhythmia Agents