Clinical effects of leukofiltration and surface modification on post-cardiopulmonary bypass atrial fibrillation in different risk cohorts.

Objective: A manifestation of inflammatory injury to the heart, atrial fibrillation (AF), ranks among the most frequent and potentially life-threatening post-operative complications.

Methods: In a prospective randomized study, 120 patients undergoing CABG were allocated into two groups (N = 60): Group 1: Polymethoxyethylacry late-coated circuits + Leukocyte filters (Terumo,USA); Group 2:

Control: Uncoated circuits (Terumo,USA). Each group was further divided into three subgroups (N = 20) with respect to low (Euroscore 0-2), medium (3-5) and high (6+) risk patients.