Effects of using primary percutaneous coronary interventions on the incidence of new‐onset atrial fibrillation following an acute myocardial infarction

Background Acute ST‐segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) and new‐onset atrial fibrillation (AF) are associated with increased risk of mortality. Hypothesis This study aimed to determine the proportion of patients who go on to develop new‐onset a AF after undergoing a primary or delayed percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) for an acute STEMI and to explore possible risk factors. Methods One hundred and fifty‐four patients who underwent PCI after STEMI were included in the study. Patient characteristics, baseline blood tests and cardiac parameters, type of PCI, and incidence of new‐onset AF within 3 months of PCI were recorded and analyzed. Results Fifteen developed new‐onset AF following the PCI, and 139 patients maintained a sinus rhythm. Univariate analysis showed significant differences between the two patient groups in terms of age, nature of the PCI (primary vs. delayed), left atrial diameter, and left ventricular diastolic dysfunction (p