Predictors of ERAT after Surgical AF ablation
In our study, the occurrence of ERAT was associated with older age, persistent AF, larger LA size, and history of CAD; these have been identified as predictors of ERAT after catheter AF ablation. Furthermore, longer CPB time and reoperation for bleeding probably reflect co-morbidities and the presence of concomitant valve diseases that further contribute to the development of ERAT. Paradoxically, ERAT is seen more often in patients who underwent bi-atrial surgical AF ablation. These observations suggest that bi-atrial surgical ablation might be preferentially selected in a fragile cohort of patients with late AF recurrence. More extensive bi-atrial ablation led to sinus node dysfunction due to surgical damage.21 Transient pacemaker implantation or use of inotropic agents resulted in the development of AF in early postoperative periods.