Comparison of Normothermic and Hypothermic Cardiopulmonary Bypass in the Development of Postoperative Atrial Fibrillation

Aim: Postoperative atrial fibrillation (PoAF) is common after cardiac surgery and has been linked to adverse outcomes. Temperature management during Cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB), particularly normothermia versus hypothermia, remains controversial due to its potential impact on PoAF. This study aimed to compare the effects of normothermic (35-37°C) and hypothermic (28-32°C) CPB on PoAF incidence in patients undergoing cardiac surgery. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed 50 consecutive adults undergoing CABG, valve surgery, or septal defect repair with CPB. Patients were managed with either normothermic or hypothermic CPB. Continuous ECG monitoring was performed for the first 48 h postoperatively, and PoAF was defined by absent P waves with irregular ventricular rhythm, verified by specialists. Group comparisons used standard statistical tests, with p