Newly Diagnosed Postoperative Atrial Fibrillation after Non-cardiothoracic Surgery-References

References

Pdf Summary

This document is a comprehensive reference list focusing on newly diagnosed postoperative atrial fibrillation (POAF) following non-cardiothoracic surgery, covering key aspects from epidemiology and mechanisms to management guidelines and future directions (2023-2025). POAF is increasingly recognized as a significant complication after non-cardiac surgeries, linked to elevated risks of stroke, thromboembolism, and mortality.<br /><br />The references highlight the pathophysiology and clinical manifestations of POAF, with studies emphasizing the role of premature atrial contractions, electrolyte imbalances (notably magnesium and potassium), and underlying conditions like subclinical hyperthyroidism as risk factors. Continuous ECG monitoring improves detection of undiagnosed atrial fibrillation postoperatively. The incidence and temporal trends from large population-based studies underscore the growing prevalence of atrial fibrillation in surgical patients.<br /><br />Risk prediction tools like the HART score have been developed to stratify patients undergoing elective non-cardiac surgeries. Management strategies are grounded in major guidelines from the European Society of Cardiology, American Heart Association, and Canadian Cardiovascular Society. These include perioperative beta-blocker use, rate versus rhythm control considerations, and individualized anticoagulation to prevent stroke, informed by patient-specific bleeding and thromboembolic risk.<br /><br />Several landmark trials and meta-analyses explore the benefits and risks of perioperative beta-blockers, rhythm control, and anticoagulation to guide therapy safely in the perioperative setting. The document also addresses uncertainties regarding duration and burden of atrial fibrillation episodes in relation to stroke risk, reflecting recent scientific statements emphasizing AF burden over binary diagnosis.<br /><br />Ongoing clinical trials such as ASPIRE-AF aim to clarify optimal anticoagulation strategies post-POAF after noncardiac surgery. Overall, these references provide a solid evidence base for hospitalists, cardiologists, and anesthesiologists managing postoperative atrial fibrillation, emphasizing risk assessment, early detection, electrolyte correction, and tailored management to improve outcomes in this patient population.

Keywords

postoperative atrial fibrillation

POAF

non-cardiothoracic surgery

electrolyte imbalance

premature atrial contractions

risk prediction

HART score

perioperative beta-blockers

anticoagulation therapy

atrial fibrillation management