Late Postoperative Interatrial Block in a Patient Discharged After Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery and the Importance of Atrial Blood Supply. A Case Report and a Short Review - Abstract
nteratrial block (IAB), is caused by abnormal conduction over the Bachmann’s bundle and is associated with development of atrial tachyarrhythmias, most commonly atrial
fibrillation. It also represents a risk factor for systemic thromboembolic events due to abnormal left atrial contraction. Additionally, delay of post operative P wave duration may,
most of the times, induce atrial fibrillation.
Moreover, it is well known that impaired blood supply to the sinus node and Buchman fibers due to pre-existing chronic sinus node artery ischemia may be considered as a risk
factor of atrial fibrillation (AF). This case report shows that in a patient with pre-existing impaired sinus node artery blood supply in the preoperative coronary angiogram, one
month after coronary bypass surgery may lead to post-operative IAB and atrial fibrillation. We also discuss the importance of atrial blood supply, possible preventive intervention
and some considerations regarding anticoagulation treatment initiation.