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Cognitive decline after major noncardiac operations: a preliminary prospective study
K P Grichnik1, A J Ijsselmuiden, T A D'Amico
1Department of Anesthesia, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina 27710, USA. grich002@mc.duke.edu
The Annals of Thoracic Surgery
|December 10, 1999
Summary
Postoperative cognitive decline affects nearly half of patients after noncardiac surgery, with age and education influencing severity. This cognitive deficit can impact a patient's return to their normal lifestyle.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Surgery
- Cognitive Science
Background:
- Postoperative cognitive decline is a known complication following cardiac surgery.
- Cognitive decline after noncardiac surgery is less understood.
- This study investigates the incidence, severity, and predictors of cognitive decline after noncardiac procedures.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the incidence and severity of cognitive decline after noncardiac surgery.
- To identify predictors of postoperative cognitive decline in patients undergoing thoracic and vascular procedures.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of 29 patients undergoing thoracic and vascular surgery was studied.
- Neurocognitive testing was performed preoperatively and 6-12 weeks postoperatively.
- Cognitive deficit was defined as a 20% decrement in 20% or more of tests; severity was measured by average score decline.
Main Results:
- The incidence of cognitive deficit was 44.8%.
- The average severity of cognitive decline was 15%, with a 24.7% decline in affected patients.
- Age and years of education were significant multivariable predictors of cognitive decline.
Conclusions:
- Cognitive decline is a frequent complication after noncardiac operations.
- The severity of this decline may hinder a patient's return to their preoperative lifestyle.