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Omega-3 Fatty Acids as Antiarrhythmic Drugs: Upstream Target Modulators Affecting Acute and Long-Term Pathological

David F Driscoll1,2, Francine K Welty3, Bruce R Bistrian4

  • 1Stable Solutions LLC, Easton MA.

Critical Care Explorations
|September 27, 2023
PubMed

Insights

Postoperative atrial fibrillation (POAF) after coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) is common. Omega-3 fatty acids show promise in reducing inflammation and mitigating POAF risks.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Pharmacology
  • Biochemistry

Background:

  • Postoperative atrial fibrillation (POAF) is a frequent complication after coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) surgery.
  • POAF is linked to increased short-term and long-term morbidity and mortality.
  • Inflammation, both preoperative and postoperative, is a primary driver of POAF pathophysiology.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the role of omega-3 fatty acids (Ω-3 fatty acids) in mitigating POAF.
  • To explore the anti-inflammatory and antiarrhythmic properties of Ω-3 fatty acids in the context of CABG surgery.

Main Methods:

  • A literature search was conducted using PubMed.
  • Studies focusing on complications in patients undergoing isolated CABG surgery were selected.
  • Data were qualitatively assessed and summarized.

Main Results:

  • POAF affects approximately 30% of patients following CABG.
  • Inflammation is identified as the leading cause of POAF.
  • Ω-3 fatty acids possess anti-inflammatory properties and may reduce POAF clinical risks.

Conclusions:

  • Currently, no definitive prophylaxis exists for POAF post-CABG.
  • Targeting the inflammatory response may improve treatment outcomes for POAF.
  • Ω-3 fatty acids may reduce acute inflammation by modulating eicosanoids and pro-resolving mediators.
Abstract

Keywords:
atrial fibrillationcoronary artery bypass grafting surgeryinflammatory responseomega-3 fatty acidsspecialized pro-resolving mediators

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