Perioperative Neurocognitive Function in Glioma Surgery

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Oncology
• Neurosurgery

Background:

• Glioma often presents with preoperative neurocognitive functioning (NCF) impairment.
• NCF deficits vary based on genetics, tumor grade, and location.
• Perioperative NCF in glioma patients is a growing area of research.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent literature on preoperative and postoperative NCF in glioma patients.
• To discuss intraoperative brain mapping's influence on NCF outcomes.
• To highlight current understanding and future research needs in glioma NCF.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of recent studies on glioma and NCF.
• Analysis of factors influencing preoperative NCF.
• Examination of postoperative NCF changes and recovery patterns.

Main Results:

• Preoperative NCF impairment is common in glioma patients.
• Postoperative NCF often shows short-term worsening followed by partial recovery.
• Persistent NCF decline can occur, linked to surgical alterations.
• Intraoperative brain mapping may mitigate NCF decline.

Conclusions:

• Glioma significantly impacts NCF, both pre- and postoperatively.
• Surgical interventions can lead to NCF decline, necessitating careful management.
• Intraoperative brain mapping shows promise in preserving NCF.
• Further research is crucial to optimize NCF preservation throughout glioma treatment.