Preoperative cognitive training improves postoperative cognitive function: a meta-analysis and systematic review of...

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Gerontology
• Surgical Outcomes

Background:

• Postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD) and postoperative delirium (POD) are prevalent complications following surgery.
• These conditions lead to extended hospital stays, diminished quality of life, increased healthcare expenses, and higher mortality rates.
• This meta-analysis investigates the efficacy of preoperative cognitive function training in mitigating these adverse outcomes.

Approach:

• A comprehensive meta-analysis was performed, searching multiple databases for relevant randomized controlled trials.
• Eleven trials involving 1,045 patients were included in the analysis.
• The primary outcomes assessed were the incidence of POCD and POD, alongside postoperative cognitive function scores.

Key Points:

• Preoperative cognitive function training significantly decreased the incidence of POCD (RR = 0.38, P < 0.00001).
• No statistically significant difference was observed in the incidence of POD between the training and control groups (P = 0.3).
• Cognitive function training led to a significant improvement in postoperative cognitive function scores (MD = 1.92, P = 0.001).

Conclusions:

• Preoperative cognitive function training is an effective strategy for reducing POCD incidence.
• While not impacting POD rates, this training method offers a simple, economical, and practical approach to improve overall postoperative cognitive function.
• The findings support the broader implementation of preoperative cognitive training to enhance patient recovery and well-being.