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Primitive reflexes associated with delirium: a prospective trial
Stephen E Nicolson1, Brenda Chabon, Kenneth A Larsen
1Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Montefiore Medical Center, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10467, USA. snicolso@montefiore.org
Psychosomatics
|November 8, 2011
Summary
The presence of primitive reflexes (PRs) before and after surgery may indicate acute central nervous system (CNS) dysfunction. More than one PR postoperatively was linked to a higher risk of developing delirium.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Geriatrics
- Cognitive Impairment Research
Background:
- Primitive reflexes (PRs) may offer insights into cognitive impairment.
- Investigating PRs' role in neurological conditions is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine if preoperative PRs predict postoperative delirium.
- To assess the association between postoperative PRs and delirium emergence.
Main Methods:
- Evaluated 79 patients for six PRs pre- and post-surgery.
- Correlated the presence and number of PRs with delirium development.
Main Results:
- Preoperative PRs did not predict delirium, but >1 PR was observed in the one patient who developed delirium.
- Postoperative delirium was associated with the emergence of multiple PRs (≥2), with 55% of patients showing ≥2 PRs developing delirium.
- Patients with ≥3 PRs had an 80% delirium rate.
Conclusions:
- This study is the first to link PRs and delirium.
- Findings suggest PRs may be associated with acute CNS dysfunction.
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