Intrapericardial Amiodarone for the Prevention of Postoperative Atrial Fibrillation

Abstract

Despite probably being the most effective prophylactic drug for postoperative atrial fibrillation (POAF), amiodarone is reserved as a second-line agent because of its potential systemic side effects. Herein, we review the available experimental and clinical trials examining the effectiveness of intrapericardial (IPC) amiodarone administration in preventing POAF which, if confirmed by future studies, can have a significant impact on cardiac surgery practice.