
The 10 year study included 3023 patients, who have undergone CABG surgery, reveals that 734 patients developed postoperative atrial fibrillation (AF).
Benedetto and colleagues have sighted that the incidence of PAF after a CABG ranges between 20-40% of patients. Another noteworthy factor identified is that postoperative AF develops within the first week after the surgery, at a median time of 2 days post surgery.

Postoperative AF has traditionally been considered a transient and benign complication of the CABG procedure. However, recent studies have reported an association between PAF and increase in early mortality and morbidity rates that includes; stroke, renal, respiratory failure, and a prolonged intensive care unit duration. Benedetto and colleagues also stated that – although postoperative AF may not be directly responsible for these poor outcomes, it is likely to contribute to increased morbidity and mortality after cardiac surgery.

In conclusion, 20-40% of patients who have undergone a coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery are at risk of developing postoperative atrial fibrillation. If they are not provided with the appropriate medical follow-up and screening after surgery, these cases can lead to a stroke, renal and respiratory failure.
Read more about the study conducted by Benedetto et al, Development of AF after CABG linked to higher risk of cerebrovascular accidents at 10 years