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Atrial Fibrillation (AFib) Prevention and Management

Content Type: Protocols | Provider

Created: September 30, 2023
Contributor(s): Subhasis Chatterjee MD FACS FACC FCCP • ERAS Cardiac Collaborative Network
Editor(s): Cheryl Crisafi MSN RN CNL • Amanda Rea DNP CRNP AGACNP-BC CCRN CMC CSC E-AEC • Gina McConnell RN BSN CCRN • Shannon Crotwell RN BSN CCRN • Alexander Gregory MD FRCPC

Summary

Postoperative atrial fibrillation (AF) is one of the most common complications following cardiac surgery and is associated with increased morbidity, higher healthcare utilization, and reduced quality of life. Preventing AF through evidence-based strategies, including pharmacologic management, physiologic optimization, and vigilant postoperative monitoring, is essential to improve outcomes and support recovery within ERAS Cardiac pathways.

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AI Assistance Statement

This summary was developed with assistance from artificial intelligence and reviewed, edited, and approved by the listed editor(s). Reference: OpenAI (2025). ChatGPT (November version) [Large language model]. 
https://chat.openai.com

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The Virtual Education Center (VEC) and all included content are intended to inform ERAS Cardiac Members on a wide range of topics related to enhanced recovery. The information presented has been provided by enhanced recovery experts and is for educational purposes only.

It is not intended to describe, recommend, or suggest any specific medical practice or intervention, nor should it be considered formal medical advice or consultation. The ERAS Cardiac Society cannot guarantee that the information provided is accurate or complete in every respect. Therefore, the Society is not responsible for any errors, omissions, or clinical outcomes resulting from application of the information obtained through the VEC.

All healthcare professionals should continue to exercise sound clinical judgment and base therapeutic decisions on the best available evidence and patient specific factors.

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Educational Materials

Why Postoperative Atrial Fibrillation Matters

Watch as Dr. Chatterjee reviews the evidence behind post-operative atrial fibrillation and its impact on outcomes and patient recovery.

Post-operative Atrial Fibrillation and Prevention

A recorded session from the ERAS Cardiac Virtual Meeting in 2021. International ERAS experts discuss POAF, including available evidence and prevention strategies.

References

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