Characterization and Prediction of Atrial Fibrillation-caused Adverse Events After Hospital Discharge for Cardiac Surgery

The purpose of the research is to identify the frequency and severity of adverse events related to atrial fibrillation that occur after discharge from hospital where the patient underwent cardiac surgery. The Specific Aims of the proposed study are to: 1. Identify the predictors of postoperative atrial fibrillation after discharge from hospital. 2. Identify the frequency of readmission to hospital, or other resource use such as Emergency Department or outpatient visit, for the treatment or prophylaxis of postoperative AF and consequent stroke or bleeding outcomes. 3. Identify the risks for stroke, death and other morbidity in patients after cardiac surgery and the effect of postoperative AF upon subsequent stroke or bleeding outcomes.