Serum HMGB1 levels in elderly patients undergoing general anesthesia with dexmedetomidine and its correlation with...

This prospective cohort study investigated the effect of dexmedetomidine on serum High mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) levels in elderly patients after general anesthesia and its correlation with early cognitive dysfunction. A total of 108 elderly patients undergoing general surgery from January 2021 to December 2022 were recruited. Among them, 61 received dexmedetomidine, while the rest received normal saline. Serum levels of HMGB1, CRP, IL-6, and IL-1β were measured preoperatively and at 6, 24, and 72 hours, as well as 7 days postoperatively. Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) scores and clinical data were collected. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS with P < .05 considered significant. The dexmedetomidine group had significantly higher MMSE scores at 24 hours postoperatively. Serum levels of HMGB1, IL-6, and IL-1β were lower in the dexmedetomidine group at all time points. Patients with MMSE < 27 had significantly higher HMGB1, IL-6, and IL-1β levels. HMGB1 at 6 hours postsurgery showed potential as a biomarker for early cognitive impairment. Additionally, HR at T3, MAP at T3, HMGB1, IL-6, IL-1β, and dexmedetomidine treatment were identified as risk factors for early cognitive impairment. Dexmedetomidine reduced serum HMGB1, IL-6, and IL-1β levels in elderly patients after general anesthesia. HMGB1 may serve as a risk factor and potential biomarker for early postoperative cognitive dysfunction.