Preventing postoperative atrial fibrillation after heart surgery

Effect of Left Posterior Pericardiotomy for the Prevention of Postoperative Atrial Fibrillation in Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting: A Prospective Randomized Controlled Trial

Not applicable Interventional Seoul National University Hospital · NCT06159985

This study is testing if a specific surgical technique can help prevent heart rhythm problems after heart surgery for people getting bypass surgery.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment270 (estimated)
Ages19 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorSeoul National University Hospital Academic / other
Locations1 site (Seoul)
Trial IDNCT06159985 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study evaluates the effectiveness of left posterior pericardiotomy in preventing postoperative atrial fibrillation (POAF) in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). Eligible participants will be randomly assigned to either receive the pericardiotomy or not at the end of their surgery. The primary outcome will be the incidence of POAF, while secondary outcomes will assess early clinical results and length of hospital stay. The study aims to address the complications associated with POAF, which can lead to increased hospital stays and adverse outcomes.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are patients aged 19 and older who are scheduled for off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting.

Not a fit: Patients with pre-existing atrial fibrillation or those undergoing other cardiac procedures will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly reduce the incidence of postoperative atrial fibrillation, improving recovery times and outcomes for patients undergoing CABG.

How similar studies have performed: While the approach of using pericardiotomy is not widely tested, similar interventions have shown promise in reducing complications in cardiac surgery.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* patients who are planned to undergo coronary artery bypass grafting
* patients aged ≥19 years

Exclusion Criteria:

* patients who are planned to undergo other concomitant cardiac procedures (e.g. valve procedures, aorta procedures)
* patients who undergo coronary artery bypass grafting using cardiopulmonary bypass
* patients who are documented with paroxysmal, persistent, or permanent atrial fibrillation before operation
* patients who have a history of cardiac surgery
* patients who have a history of pericardial disease
* patients who have severe adhesion at left pleural cavity which precludes effective left posterior pericardiostomy
* patients who refuse to participate in this study

Where this trial is running

Seoul

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Coronary Artery DiseaseAtrial Fibrillation New OnsetPericardial Effusion
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.