We recommend that temporary ventricular epicardial pacing electrode wires be placed at the time of cardiac surgery to allow for backup ventricular pacing as necessary. (Recommendation Strong, Quality Low)<br /><br /><b>Values and preferences: </b>This recommendation reflects the relative ease of placement of epicardial temporary pacing wires at the time of surgery as well as the potential for significant morbidity associated with postoperative bradycardia.