CTS trials network: Rate control vs rhythm control for atrial fibrillation after cardiac surgery - Do bitter pills have blessed effects?

Abstract

New onset AF is a very common sequel of cardiac surgery with an incidence reaching 50% in some studies. This post-operative complication leads to increased morbidity, hospital stay and, consequently, hospital costs1. Currently there is a great variability in the management of this condition. Despite efforts to produce best practice guidelines2, what best to do for a patient who develops AF post-operatively remains a question. In a systematic attempt to find an answer to this question, the Cardiothoracic Trials Network have recently published the results of their trial "Rate Control Versus Rhythm Control for Atrial Fibrillation After Cardiac Surgery"3 (clinicaltrials.gov number: NCT02132767).