Intraoperative and Postoperative Variables Associated with Strokes following Cardiac Surgery

Abstract

After we adjusted for preoperative factors, postoperative atrial fibrillation and increasing duration of cardiopulmonary bypass remained significant predictors of embolic and hypoperfusion strokes, although to differing degrees. Prevention and management of atrial fibrillation and avoidance of prolonged exposure to extracorporeal circulation may offer leverage areas for the improvement of stroke outcomes.