Role of Dexmedatomidine Drug in Prevention of Atrial Fibrillations Post Mitral Valve Surgery

Recently, dexmedetomidine has been suggested as an alternative agent for sedation in tachyarrhythmias due to its antiarrhythmic properties through decreased catecholamine release, prolonged refractory period, and increased vagal tone. In addition, dexmedetomidine is a highly selective agonist that does not interact with the gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptors. Thus, its analgesic properties are opioid sparing, which is unique among traditional ICU sedatives and avoids the issue of respiratory depression with over-sedation.

Our aim: To evaluate the potential prophylactic effect of perioperative dexmedetomidine in reducing the incidence of early postoperative new onset atrial fibrillation following mitral valve surgery.