English

Abstract

Post-operative delirium in elderly patients is associated with higher mortality and longer lengths of stay. This prospective observational study investigated the incidences of preoperative mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and post-operative delirium among elderly patients undergoing elective surgery at the authors’ institution, the relationship between MCI and delirium, and the impact of delirium on surgical morbidity and lengths of stay. The authors found that although MCI did not predict post-operative delirium, the high incidence of MCI in elective surgery patients warrants further study.