Amiodarone and postoperative atrial fibrillation

Abstract

New-onset postoperative atrial fibrillation (POAF) develops in 10%-50% of patients after cardiac surgery. In this review, we focus on risk factors associated with POAF and the different pharmacological strategies used for prophylaxis, with special attention to amiodarone. The use of amiodarone will be discussed both as a prophylactic regimen used before and following cardiac surgery, but also as a rhythm control treatment in patients who develop POAF. Finally, we conclude by reviewing gaps in the literature on amiodarone and further studies which could close these gaps.