Atrial fibrillation: an anesthesiologist's perspective

Abstract

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is not only the most common arrhythmia in the global population but also the most frequent one encountered in the operating room. For an anesthesiologist, it is crucial to have the ability to maintain hemodynamics and prevent complications of patients who present AF perioperatively. Here we provide a brief review in the novel concept of the classification, pathophysiology, and management of AF to provide a practical approach for physicians coming across this arrhythmia during the perioperative period.