Cardiac Arrhythmias and the Perioperative Period . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Charles C. Gornick and Arthur H. L. From

Cardiac arrhythmias are common management problems. During the perioperative period

cardiac arrhythmias can cause considerable morbidity, including myocardial ischemia,

hemodynamic compromise, and stroke; these complications can be life threatening.

Thus, recognizing and understanding the etiology and appropriate management of arrhyth-

mias are critical components of perioperative care.