Postoperative atrial fibrillation (POAF) is a common complication following coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), associated with increased morbidity and health care costs. This study examines the incidence and impact of POAF on outcomes in CABG patients at a single institution. This retrospective observational study included patients undergoing isolated CABG between 2006 and 2022, excluding those with preoperative atrial fibrillation. Data include demographics, length of stay (LOS), mortality, and complications (Bleeding, stroke, and infection rates), comparing outcomes in patients with and without POAF. Among 2,671 patients, 238 (8.9%) developed POAF. POAF patients had higher rates of infection (7.56 vs. 5.75%), postoperative bleeding (5.04 vs. 2.84%), and stroke (5.46 vs. 2.01%). Thirty-day, 2-year, and 5-year mortality rates were 1.3, 7.8, and 24%, respectively. Intensive care unit (ICU) and hospital LOS were also prolonged in POAF patients as well. A total of 63.6 and 8.44% of POAF patients were discharged within 5 days from the hospital and ICU, respectively. Compared with 73.1 and 15.8% of non-POAF patients experienced no complications. POAF significantly impacts CABG patient outcomes, increasing morbidity, mortality, and resource utilization. Monitoring and early intervention are essential to mitigate these effects.

Article published online:
25 July 2025

© 2025. International College of Angiology. This article is published by Thieme.

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