Pharmacological approach for the prevention of atrial fibrillation after cardiovascular surgery.
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a common complication of cardiovascular surgery. The two most important risk factors for its development are advancing age and a preoperative history of AF. Long-term sequelae, such as a stroke, are uncommon, however, atrial fibrillation frequently results in increased length and cost of hospitalization. Strategies to prevent postoperative AF include perioperative beta-blockers, amiodarone, and atrial pacing. These strategies are most effective in high-risk patients. When AF does occur, treatment includes control of the ventricular rate, systemic anticoagulation, and conversion to sinus rhythm.
Solomon
Allen J
AJ
Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Georgetown University Hospital, Room M422, 3800 Reservoir Road NW, Washington, DC 20007, USA. solomona@gunet.georgetown.edu
D001281:Atrial Fibrillation / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000209:etiology / Q000517:prevention & control*; D013504:Cardiovascular Surgical Procedures; D006801:Humans; D015994:Incidence; D011183:Postoperative Complications / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000209:etiology / Q000517:prevention & control*; D012307:Risk Factors