Risk Factors for Postoperative Delirium in Thoracic Surgery Patients – A Prospective Cross-sectional Study

Abstract

Background: Postoperative delirium (POD) is a common complication that affects the prognosis and outcome. The risk factors of different surgical types have significance in preventing POD. Still, there are few studies on the risk factors for this complication of thoracic surgery, and further research and exploration are necessary. Method: This study intends to conduct a prospective cross-sectional study, including patients undergoing elective thoracic surgery. The primary outcome is the incidence of POD 1-7 days after surgery or before discharge. The essential information on patients, surgery, anesthesia, and postoperative details are gathered for statistical analysis. We are exploring the potential relationship between anesthesia-related factors and POD. Result: One hundred seventy-five patients were included in this study, and 17 (9.7%) patients developed POD. Univariate analysis showed that age-adjusted Charlson Comorbidity Index (aCCI), educational attainment, blood transfusion, artificial blood vessel replacement, and indwelling urinary catheter were statistically different. Logistic regression results showed that the aCCI index (OR 1.811, 95% CI 1.058-3.103; P=0.030), the ambulation time (OR 12.303, 95% CI 2.670-56.686; P=0.001) increased POD risk. In patients undergoing thoracotomy, blood transfusion (RR 16.875, 95% CI 2.149-132.508; P=0.012) was statistically different between POD and non-POD groups. Conclusion: The results of this study showed that the higher the aCCI index, the later the ambulation time is the risk factor for POD in thoracic surgery patients. The risk of POD may be heightened in thoracic surgery patients who require a blood transfusion. However, additional research is warranted to confirm these findings.