A comparative study on the effect of amiodarone and metaprolol for prevention of arrythmias after open heart surgery

Objectives: The aim of this study was to compare the effect of amiodarone and metaprolol in prevention of atrial fibrillation in patients, following open heart surgery. Methods: This prospective study was carried out between May 2008 to Nov. 2010, and comprised a total of 50 patients with normal preoperative sinus rhythm undergoing open heart surgery using cardio pulmonary bypass. Results: Mean age of patients was 47+2.7 years, of which 60% who developed atrial fibrillation aged from 51 to 60 years. Most patients (62%) were in NYHA Class III. Patients who received amiodarone showed significant improvement in LVEF compared to those treated with Metaprolol. Amiodarone treated group exhibited lesser incidence and short-lasting atrial fibrillation, lower ventricular rate, shorter hospitalization, and lesser cost of care than those in metaprolol group. Conclusions: The present study showed that amiodarone was more efficient in controlling post-operative atrial fibrillation as compared to metaprolol. However, a larger randomized controlled trial is needed to corroborate the result of this study.