Atorvastatin is a medication used in this trial to see if it can help reduce the occurrence of irregular heartbeats, known as post-operative atrial fibrillation (POAF), after heart valve surgery. Patients who have not previously taken statins will start taking Atorvastatin before their surgery and continue taking it for a period after the surgery to see if it helps prevent these irregular heartbeats.

Statin Discontinuation is another aspect of the trial, where researchers are looking at what happens when patients who have been taking statins stop using them before their heart valve surgery. The study aims to find out if stopping statins increases the risk of irregular heartbeats or other complications after the surgery.

Atrial Fibrillation – Atrial fibrillation is a common heart rhythm disorder where the heart’s upper chambers (atria) beat irregularly and often rapidly. This irregular rhythm can lead to poor blood flow and may cause symptoms like palpitations, fatigue, and shortness of breath. Over time, atrial fibrillation can lead to complications such as blood clots, which may increase the risk of stroke. The condition can be persistent or occur in episodes, and its severity can vary among individuals. It often requires monitoring and management to prevent further complications.

Myocardial Infarction – Myocardial infarction, commonly known as a heart attack, occurs when blood flow to a part of the heart is blocked for a long enough time that part of the heart muscle is damaged or dies. This blockage is often due to a buildup of fat, cholesterol, and other substances, which form a plaque in the coronary arteries. Symptoms can include chest pain, shortness of breath, and discomfort in the upper body. The severity and progression of a myocardial infarction can vary, and it requires immediate medical attention to restore blood flow and minimize heart damage.

Stroke – A stroke happens when the blood supply to part of the brain is interrupted or reduced, preventing brain tissue from getting oxygen and nutrients. This can cause brain cells to begin dying within minutes. Symptoms may include trouble speaking, paralysis or numbness of the face, arm, or leg, and problems with vision or balance. The effects of a stroke depend on the area of the brain affected and the length of time the brain is without blood flow. Early intervention is crucial to minimize brain damage and potential complications.

Acute Kidney Injury – Acute kidney injury is a sudden episode of kidney failure or kidney damage that happens within a few hours or days. It causes a build-up of waste products in the blood and makes it hard for the kidneys to maintain the right balance of fluid in the body. Symptoms may include decreased urine output, swelling due to fluid retention, and fatigue. The condition can be caused by a variety of factors, including reduced blood flow to the kidneys, direct damage to the kidneys, or blockage of the urinary tract. It often requires prompt treatment to prevent further kidney damage.