SGB for Prevention of Postop A-Fib After Cardiac SurgeryTrial

This research study is being conducted to determine whether a stellate ganglion block, a small injection in the neck that temporarily reduces sympathetic nervous system activity, can help reduce the risk of developing postoperative atrial fibrillation after cardiac surgery. Postoperative atrial fibrillation is a common complication after cardiac surgery and may lead to longer hospital stays and other health problems. This study is also being conducted to evaluate whether this procedure can be performed safely and feasibly in cardiac surgery patients. The medication used in the active treatment group is bupivacaine, which is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). However, its use as part of a stellate ganglion block for prevention of atrial fibrillation after cardiac surgery is considered investigational. The study procedure will take place after surgery while participants are in the intensive care unit (ICU), before the breathing tube is removed. If enrolled in the study, participants will receive a single injection in the neck area while still under sedation, using ultrasound guidance, which is a type of imaging that helps the doctor see the area and place the injection safely This procedure is called a stellate ganglion block. The procedure itself takes approximately 10-15 minutes. Before and after the procedure, the study team will perform simple measurements to assess the effect of the block. These include measuring skin temperature and checking your size. These assessments will take about 10-15 minutes. Heart rhythm will be monitored as part of standard care during hospital stay. The study team will collect information about development atrial fibrillation within 7 days after surgery.