Niv Ad

Atrial fibrillation following open heart surgery [postoperative atrial fibrillation (POAF)] remains a clinical challenge. The reported incidence of POAF varies but remains high. The group lead by James L. Cox, at Washington University identified multiple clinical risk factors associated with POAF, such as increased age, chronic lung disease and longer duration of ischaemic time [1]. The studies by Creswell et al. and others also reported an increased risk for mortality, perioperative stroke, and longer length of stay and readmission rates [1, 2]. Increased cost and resource utilization is also readily reported [2]. The challenge we all face with POAF is composed of the complete understanding of the mechanism and predisposing factors on one...