Post-operative atrial fibrillation after cardiac surgery: reversible, provoked, or predictive? Time to reframe a persistent challenge

European Heart Journal 2026

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Authors: Laurent Fauchier, T H Lenormand
DOI: 10.1093/eurheartj/ehag056
Cited by: 1
References: 14

Abstract

POAF after cardiac surgery reflects a spectrum of stressor-associated AF, from reversible forms with low AF burden to provoked AF driven by underlying atrial substrate. Rather than mandating uniform anticoagulation, POAF should trigger structured phenotyping and individualized long-term management based on recurrence risk and thromboembolic profile.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Cardiac Anesthesia and Surgical Outcomes Atrial Fibrillation Management and Outcomes Cardiac and Coronary Surgery Techniques

Publication details

Journal / source
European Heart Journal
Publisher
Oxford University Press (OUP)
Volume
47
Issue
23
Pages
2978–2981
Publication date
21 January 2026
Language
EN