Drainage Technique in CABG

Coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) is a cornerstone in the management of advanced coronary artery disease, yet it carries a notable risk of postoperative complications. Among these, postoperative atrial fibrillation (POAF) is particularly common, affecting up to 40% of patients and contributing to increased morbidity, prolonged ICU and hospital stays, and elevated healthcare costs.

Pericardial effusion and tamponade are also frequent sequelae after CABG operation, often exacerbating the risk of POAF and necessitating re-intervention. Traditionally, retro-cardiac drains have been used to evacuate pericardial fluid, but their efficacy in preventing effusion-related complications is limited.

The posterior pericardial window (PPW) technique has emerged as a promising alternative, offering improved drainage and reduced incidence of POAF, early and late pericardial effusion, and tamponade. Studies have shown that PPW may also shorten ICU and hospital stays, reduce pleural effusion, and lower the need for revision surgery due to bleeding.

Despite encouraging data, randomized trials directly comparing PPW and retro-cardiac drains remain scarce. This study aims to fill that gap by evaluating the effectiveness of PPW versus retro-cardiac drain in preventing postoperative atrial fibrillation and pericardial complications following CABG, with secondary outcomes including pleural effusion, ICU/hospital stay duration, revision surgery, and mortality.

Inclusion criteria

• Adult patients (aged 18 and above) scheduled for elective, first-time coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG).
• Patients with preserved left ventricular function (ejection fraction ≥ 35%).
• Ability to provide informed consent and comply with follow-up protocols.
• No prior history of atrial fibrillation or other significant arrhythmias.

Exclusion criteria

• Patients undergoing combined cardiac procedures (e.g., valve repair or replacement).
• Emergency CABG cases or re-operations.
• Known bleeding disorders or ongoing anticoagulation therapy that cannot be paused.
• Severe pericardial adhesions or anatomical abnormalities preventing safe creation of a posterior pericardial window.
• Chronic pulmonary disease or pleural pathology that may interfere with drainage assessment.
• Patients with active infections or systemic inflammatory conditions.