Impact of a Perioperative Prophylaxis Guideline on Post-Cardiothoracic Surgery Atrial Fibrillation.

Background: National practice guidelines do not provide clear recommendations on combination pharmacological regimens to reduce cardiothoracic surgery (CTS) postoperative atrial fibrillation (POAF).

Objective: This study examines if there is a reduction in POAF rates after implementing a perioperative prophylaxis guideline that includes amiodarone, β-blockers, and high-intensity statins.

Methods: Data were retrospectively collected on 400 adults (200 patients pre-guideline implementation and 200 patients post-guideline implementation) with a CHADS-VASc (Congestive Heart Failure, Hypertension, Age, Diabetes Mellitus, and Vascular Disease) score of at least 3 points after CTS.