[Postoperative cognitive dysfunction after non-cardiac surgery]

Postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD) is seen not only after cardiac surgery but also after non-cardiac surgery. POCD leads to decreased quality of life and increased mortality. Various reports describe the occurrence and risk factor of POCD in adopting different neuropsychological tests and different follow-up periods. POCD is highly associated with age or inflammation in the central nerve system. Anti-inflammatory strategies including dexmedetomidine, statin or minocycline in the perioperative period may reduce incidence of POCD.