Effects of magnesium on atrial fibrillation after cardiac surgery: a meta-analysis

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#anti-arrhythmia-agents #atrial-fibrillation #humans #length-of-stay #magnesium-sulfate

Effects of magnesium on atrial fibrillation after cardiac surgery: a meta-analysis

Miller et al., 2005 | Heart | Meta Analysis

Citation

Miller S, Crystal E, ... Connolly S J. Effects of magnesium on atrial fibrillation after cardiac surgery: a meta-analysis. Heart. 2005-May;91(5):618-23

Abstract

OBJECTIVES: To assess the efficacy of the administration of magnesium as a method for the prevention of postoperative atrial fibrillation (AF) and to evaluate its influence on hospital length of stay (LOS) and mortality. METHODS: Literature search and meta-analysis of the randomised control studies published since 1966. RESULTS: 20 randomised trials were identified, enrolling a total of 2490 patients. Study sample size varied between 20 and 400 patients. Magnesium administration decreased the proportion of patients developing postoperative AF from 28% in the control group to 18% in the treatment group (odds ratio 0.54, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.38 to 0.75). Data on LOS were available from seven trials (1227 patients). Magnesium did not significantly affect LOS (weighted mean difference -0.07 days of stay, 95% CI -0.66 to 0.53). The overall mortality was low (0.7%) and was not affected by magnesium administration (odds ratio 1.22, 95% CI 0.39 to 3.77). CONCLUSION: Magnesium administration is an effective prophylactic measure for the prevention of postoperative AF. It does not significantly alter LOS or in-hospital mortality.

Key Findings

20 randomised trials were identified, enrolling a total of 2490 patients. Study sample size varied between 20 and 400 patients. Magnesium administration decreased the proportion of patients developing postoperative AF from 28% in the control group to 18% in the treatment group (odds ratio 0.54, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.38 to 0.75). Data on LOS were available from seven trials (1227 patients). Magnesium did not significantly affect LOS (weighted mean difference -0.07 days of stay, 95% CI -0

Outcomes Measured

  • Requires manual extraction

Population

Field Value
Population See abstract
Sample Size 2490
Age Range See abstract
Condition See abstract

MeSH Terms

  • Anti-Arrhythmia Agents
  • Atrial Fibrillation
  • Humans
  • Length of Stay
  • Magnesium Sulfate
  • Postoperative Complications
  • Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
  • Thoracic Surgical Procedures

Evidence Classification

  • Level: Meta Analysis
  • Publication Types: Journal Article, Meta-Analysis, Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't, Review
  • Vertical: magnesium

Provenance

  • PMID: 15831645
  • DOI: (not available)
  • PMCID: PMC1768903
  • Verified: 2026-04-09 via PubMed E-utilities API

Source extracted via PubMed E-utilities API on 2026-04-09