Optimising risk factors for atrial fibrillation post-cardiac surgery

Postoperative atrial fibrillation (POAF) is an ongoing complication following cardiac surgery, with an incidence of 15%–60%. It is associated with substantial mortality and morbidity, as well increased hospital stays and healthcare costs. The pathogenesis is not fully understood, but the literature suggests that POAF occurs when transient, postoperative triggers act on vulnerable atrial tissue produced by preoperative, procedure-induced and...