Perioperative supplementation of polyunsaturated omega-3 fatty acid for the prevention of atrial fibrillation after cardiothoracic surgery.

Purpose: The effect of perioperative supplementation of polyunsaturated omega-3 fatty acid (PUFA) on the frequency of atrial fibrillation (AF) in patients without a history of AF was evaluated.

Methods: A total of 561 patients were randomized to receive either 1 g of PUFA or placebo twice daily. Treatment was started up to five days before surgery or within 24 hours after surgery, depending on when consent was received.