[Perioperative stroke after cardiac surgery: prevention and treatment strategies]

S J Li1, Y J Ma1

  • 1Department of Neurology,Fu Wai Hospital, National Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100037, China.

Zhonghua Yi Xue Za Zhi
|March 19, 2026
PubMed

Insights

Patients undergoing cardiac surgery face a high risk of perioperative stroke, impacting prognosis and costs. This review details stroke risk factors and mechanisms to improve prevention and treatment strategies.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Neurology
  • Surgical Outcomes

Background:

  • Cardiac surgery patients exhibit elevated perioperative stroke risk compared to non-cardiac surgery patients.
  • Perioperative stroke significantly worsens patient prognosis and increases healthcare expenditures.
  • The complex etiology and multifactorial nature of perioperative stroke present significant prevention and treatment challenges.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To comprehensively review the epidemiology, risk factors, and etiological mechanisms of perioperative stroke following cardiac surgery.
  • To enhance understanding and emphasize the importance of preventing and treating perioperative stroke in cardiac surgery.
  • To guide strategies for improving patient outcomes and reducing the incidence of stroke after cardiac procedures.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review and synthesis of existing research on perioperative stroke in cardiac surgery.
  • Analysis of epidemiological data, identified risk factors, and underlying pathophysiological mechanisms.
  • Compilation of current knowledge on preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative management strategies.

Main Results:

  • Cardiac surgery is associated with a higher incidence of stroke than other surgical procedures.
  • Key risk factors and complex etiological pathways contributing to perioperative stroke have been identified.
  • Effective management involves a multi-faceted approach including risk assessment, surgical optimization, and post-operative care.

Conclusions:

  • Understanding the epidemiology and risk factors of perioperative stroke is crucial for cardiac surgery patients.
  • Proactive preoperative assessment, intraoperative adjustments, and diligent postoperative management are essential for stroke risk reduction.
  • Improved strategies for perioperative stroke prevention and treatment can significantly enhance patient prognosis and reduce associated medical costs.

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