Supraventricular dysrhythmias (SVDs) present the most frequent medical complication after thoracic surgery and have been associated with prolonged hospital stays. The reported incidence of SVDs in the thoracic surgery patient population ranges from 10% to 40%, with factors such as age and extent of surgery markedly influencing the incidence. This article focuses on new issues leading to improved understanding of the pathophysiology and mechanisms of SVDs after surgery. New approaches directed at prophylaxis and acute therapy of SVDs are discussed, as are recommendations to prevent thromboembolic events due to atrial dysrhythmias following thoracic surgery.
