Atrial fibrillation and delayed gastric emptying

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Cardiology
• Surgical Outcomes

Background:

• Atrial fibrillation and delayed gastric emptying (DGE) are frequent complications following pancreaticoduodenectomy.
• The relationship between these two common postoperative issues requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the association between postoperative atrial fibrillation and the incidence of delayed gastric emptying (DGE).
• To determine if atrial fibrillation is an independent risk factor for DGE after pancreaticoduodenectomy.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 249 patients undergoing pancreaticoduodenectomy from 2000-2009.
• Statistical analysis included Fisher exact test, Mann-Whitney U, and unpaired T-tests.
• DGE was defined as the inability to tolerate a regular diet by postoperative day 7.

Main Results:

• Postoperative atrial fibrillation occurred in approximately 5% of patients.
• Patients with atrial fibrillation were older (median 74 vs 66 years) and more likely to have a prior history of atrial fibrillation.
• A significantly higher proportion of patients with postoperative atrial fibrillation experienced DGE (92% vs 46%, p<0.001), even after adjusting for age.

Conclusions:

• Postoperative atrial fibrillation is strongly associated with an increased likelihood of developing delayed gastric emptying.
• Proactive management strategies for gastric function should be considered in patients at high risk for postoperative atrial fibrillation.