Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 23, 2026
Cox-Maze IV Procedure Concomitant with Valvular Surgery In Situs Inversus Dextrocardia: A Single-Center Experience in China
Published on: February 11, 2022
Postoperative Atrial Fibrillation after Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting Surgery: A Two-dimensional Speckle Tracking
Beste Ozben1, Dursun Akaslan1, Murat Sunbul1
1Marmara University School of Medicine Department of Cardiology, Istanbul, Turkey.
Insights
Postoperative atrial fibrillation (POAF) after coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) is linked to increased left atrial volume and fibrosis. Preoperative echocardiography can help identify patients at higher risk for developing POAF.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Cardiac Surgery
- Electrophysiology
Background:
- Postoperative atrial fibrillation (POAF) is a common complication following coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG).
- Understanding predictors of POAF is crucial for patient management and outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between preoperative left atrial function, atrial fibrosis, and the incidence of POAF after CABG.
- To identify potential echocardiographic markers for predicting POAF.
Main Methods:
- Echocardiography (conventional and speckle tracking) assessed left atrial function in 48 patients undergoing CABG.
- Atrial fibrosis was evaluated using right atrial tissue samples.
- Patients were monitored postoperatively for POAF via continuous electrocardiography.
Main Results:
- POAF occurred in 13 patients, who had higher rates of female sex, more bypassed vessels, and longer cardiopulmonary bypass times.
- Patients with POAF exhibited significantly higher left atrial volume index (LAVI) and lower left atrial reservoir strain.
- Increased atrial fibrosis and elevated LAVI (≥36mL/m²) were identified as independent predictors of POAF.
Conclusions:
- Preoperative indicators of impaired left atrial function and increased fibrosis are associated with a higher risk of POAF post-CABG.
- Echocardiographic assessment of LAVI and atrial strain may aid in identifying patients susceptible to POAF.
Background:
Postoperative atrial fibrillation (POAF) may develop after coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). The aim of the study was to explore the relationship between preoperative left atrial function and atrial fibrosis and POAF after CABG.
Methods:
Forty-eight consecutive patients undergoing CABG (mean age: 61.6±8.9 years, 39 male) were included. All patients were in sinus rhythm during surgery. Patients were followed by continuous electrocardiography monitoring and daily electrocardiogram. Left atrial function was assessed by both conventional and speckle tracking echocardiography. Atrial fibrosis was determined by samples taken from right atrium.
Results:
Postoperative atrial fibrillation was detected in 13 patients. Female sex and number of bypassed vessels were significantly higher and cardiopulmonary bypass time was significantly longer in patients with POAF. Left atrial volume index (LAVI) was significantly higher while left atrial reservoir strain was significantly lower in POAF patients. The percentage of patients with severe fibrosis was higher in the POAF group. Regression analysis revealed fibrosis and LAVI as independent predictors of POAF. Left atrial volume index ≥36mL/m(2) predicted POAF with a sensitivity of 84.6% and specificity of 68.6% in our cohort.
Conclusion:
Patients who developed POAF after CABG had more fibrosis, increased LAVI and lower left atrial reservoir strain. Preoperative echocardiography might be helpful in discriminating these patients.
Related Concept Videos
01:23Peripheral Artery Disease V: Postoperative Nursing Management
01:28Cardiomyopathy VII: Pre and Post Operative Nursing Management
01:22Aneurysm IV: Nursing Management
01:28Acute Coronary Syndrome IV: Interprofessional Care
01:25Aortic Regurgitation III: Medical Management
01:25ECG Interpretation of Arrhythmias II: Atrial, Junctional and Ventricular Arrhythmias