The UAB Cardiothoracic Surgery research team has co-authored a study published in Annals of Thoracic Surgery Short Reports, titled "Oral Diltiazem Prophylaxis for Atrial Fibrillation in Patients Undergoing Robotic Lobectomy."
This study provides insights into preventing atrial fibrillation in patients undergoing robotic lobectomy. Atrial fibrillation is a common postoperative complication in thoracic surgeries, which can lead to increased morbidity, extended hospital stays, and elevated healthcare costs.
The research team, including UAB Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery Professor Benjamin Wei, M.D., Associate Professor James Donahue, M.D., Assistant Professor Rongbing Xie, Dr.P.H., MPH, Certified Registered Nurse Practitioner Caroline LaFon, MSN, DNP, former UAB cardiothoracic surgery resident Juan Muñoz-Largacha, M.D., and UAB Heersink School of Medicine student Kai He. The team analyzed oral diltiazem, a calcium channel blocker, as a prophylactic measure to prevent the onset of postoperative atrial fibrillation in these patients, comparing patients who did not receive prophylaxis with those who did.
The study's principal findings indicate that administering oral diltiazem did not decrease the incidence of atrial fibrillation when used as a prophylactic treatment in patients undergoing robotic lobectomy. The study also demonstrated that male patients were more than three times as likely to experience perioperative atrial fibrillation. As a result, the UAB Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery has adopted a more selective approach to administering diltiazem for atrial fibrillation prophylaxis following robotic lobectomy.
The research team underscores the importance of clinical research in improving surgical outcomes and patient care. By exploring the use of oral Diltiazem, the study offers thoracic surgeons a more nuanced strategy to combat one of challenges in postoperative management of patients undergoing robotic lobectomy.
For more detailed findings, access the full study here: Oral Diltiazem Prophylaxis for Atrial Fibrillation in Patients Undergoing Robotic Lobectomy