New-Onset Atrial Fibrillation After Coronary Artery Bypass Graft and Long-Term Risk of Stroke: A Meta-Analysis

Abstract

BACKGROUND: New-onset atrial fibrillation (NOAF) after coronary artery bypass graft is related to an increased short-term risk of stroke and mortality. We investigated whether the long-term risk of stroke is increased. METHODS AND RESULTS: We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of studies that included patients who had coronary artery bypass graft and who afterwards developed NOAF during their index admission; these patients did not have previous atrial fibrillation. The primary outcome was risk of stroke at 6 months or more in patients who developed NOAF compared with those who did not. Odds ratios, relative risk, and hazard ratios were considered equivalent; outcomes were poole..