Glossary/Recovery & Rehabilitation

Postoperative Atrial Fibrillation.

New-onset atrial fibrillation occurring after cardiac surgery, affecting 20 to 40 percent of patients. Usually temporary, peaking on the second or third postoperative day. Managed with rate control, rhythm control, or anticoagulation as needed.

Definition

What is postoperative atrial fibrillation?

New-onset atrial fibrillation occurring after cardiac surgery, affecting 20 to 40 percent of patients. Usually temporary, peaking on the second or third postoperative day. Managed with rate control, rhythm control, or anticoagulation as needed.

Related Terms

Related glossary terms.

Atrial Fibrillation
The most common heart rhythm disorder, in which the upper chambers (atria) beat irregularly and o...
Amiodarone
A potent antiarrhythmic medication used to treat and prevent various heart rhythm disorders, part...
Beta-Blocker
A class of medications that slow the heart rate and lower blood pressure by blocking the effects ...
See Also

Related conditions we review.

Surgical Treatment of Atrial Fibrillation
Atrial Septal Defect (Adult)
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