atrial fibrillation
Irregular heart rhythm characterized by chaotic atrial electrical activity, often addressed surgically during cardiac procedures.
Full Definition
Atrial fibrillation is the most common sustained cardiac arrhythmia, characterized by rapid, irregular, and ineffective atrial contractions due to disorganized electrical activity. In cardiovascular surgery, atrial fibrillation may be present preoperatively as a comorbid condition or develop postoperatively as a complication. Surgical treatment options include the Cox-Maze procedure or simplified ablation techniques performed concomitantly with other cardiac procedures. The condition increases risk of stroke and thromboembolism, requiring anticoagulation management in the perioperative period.
Usage
Usage note: Commonly abbreviated as AFib or AF in clinical documentation.
In Context
- "The patient underwent concomitant maze procedure for chronic atrial fibrillation during mitral valve replacement." — Operative procedure note
- "Postoperative atrial fibrillation developed on day three, requiring rate control and anticoagulation." — Postoperative progress note