Effect of Posterior Pericardiotomy in Reducing Frequency of Atrial Fibrillation in Post Operative Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting Surgery (cabg) Patients in Punjab Institution of Cardiology Lahore
Year: 2024
Type: article
Study designs: Randomized Controlled Trial, Clinical Trial
Abstract: Postoperative atrial fibrillation (POAF) is a common complication following coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), associated with increased morbidity, prolonged hospitalization, and higher healthcare costs. Posterior pericardiotomy, a surgical technique that facilitates the drainage of pericardial fluid into the pleural cavity, has been proposed as a preventive measure against POAF. Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of posterior pericardiotomy in reducing the incidence of POAF in patients undergoing CABG at the Punjab Institute of Cardiology, Lahore, Pakistan. Methods: This randomized controlled trial included 94 patients undergoing CABG, randomized into two groups: Group A (posterior pericardiotomy) and Group B (control). Demographic data, POAF incidence, and postoperative outcomes were collected. Statistical analysis was conducted using SPSS version 20, with a p-value ≤0.05 considered significant. Results: The incidence of POAF was significantly lower in Group A (6.4%) compared to Group B (25.5%) (p=0.014). Group A also exhibited a shorter hospital stay (7.8 ± 1.4 days vs. 8.5 ± 1.6 days; p=0.021) and a lower incidence of pericardial effusion (4.3% vs. 21.3%; p=0.032). Both groups were comparable in baseline demographics and comorbidities. Conclusion: Posterior pericardiotomy significantly reduces the incidence of POAF, pericardial effusion, and hospital stay duration in CABG patients. These findings support its use as a safe and effective intervention to improve postoperative outcomes in resource-limited settings like Pakistan.
Authors: FJ RAO, A HASSAN, AR SARWER, G ATIF
Institution: Punjab Institute of Cardiology
Language: English
Subfield: Cardiology and Cardiovascular Medicine
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W4405964793
