Target flow deviations on the cardiopulmonary bypass cause postoperative delirium in cardiothoracic surgery-a

Johannes Krefting1, Hagen Gorki1, Markus Hoenicka1

  • 1Department of Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery, Ulm University Medical Center, Ulm, Germany.

Insights

Cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) parameters, including total blood volume and minimal blood flow, significantly predict postoperative delirium (POD). Tighter control over CPB flow rates and acid-base balance can reduce POD risk.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Neurosurgery
  • Anesthesiology

Background:

  • Postoperative delirium (POD) is a frequent complication following cardiac surgery, associated with significant morbidity and mortality.
  • Identifying modifiable risk factors during cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) is crucial for improving patient outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To assess the contribution of CPB parameters to the development of POD using advanced data processing techniques.
  • To identify specific CPB operational states that influence POD risk.

Main Methods:

  • A cohort study utilizing data from 2014-2019, integrating ICU discharge, CPB protocols, and quality management records.
  • Algorithm-based data structuring, imputation of missing values, and multiple logistic regression analysis.
  • Development of a minimal adequate model to identify independent predictors of POD.

Main Results:

  • POD occurred in 14.4% of patients (456/3163).
  • Independent predictors included known factors (male sex, age, comorbidities) and CPB parameters: total blood volume (AOR 1.001) and minimal blood flow (AOR 0.993).
  • Higher minimal blood flow was associated with a lower risk of POD.

Conclusions:

  • CPB data processing effectively identifies operational states influencing POD.
  • Strict adherence to perfusion limits and controlled blood flow during CPB are key to reducing POD risk.
Abstract