Is it common to develop heart problems after having lung surgery for cancer?

Somewhat: Heart arrhythmias like atrial fibrillation (a-fib) may occur in up to 10-15% of patients after lung surgery. To prevent a-fib, you doctor may give you magnesium and potassium after surgery to replace your electrolytes. Also, if you were on a beta-blocker medication prior to surgery, those will be restarted. If not, your doctor may temporarily place you on a beta or calcium channel blocker.

Some: It is not uncommon for a patient to have some abnormal heartbeats (an arrhythmia) after lung surgery. Usually it can be managed with medication, and is often limited in duration - but not always. It is important to discuss this with your doctor if it happens to you.