Postoperative Delirium Research Articles

Erythropoietin for the prevention of postoperative neurocognitive disorder in older adult patients undergoing total joint arthroplasty: a randomized controlled study.

Post-operative delirium (PD) is a common post-operative complication with significant clinical and financial impacts on patients. Erythropoietin (EPO), a multi-functional glycoprotein hormone, exhibits erythropoietic and non-erythropoietic anti-inflammatory properties. This study aimed to determine the role of perioperative EPO administration in the development of postoperative delirium in older adult patients undergoing total joint arthroplasty. Seventy-one patients (> 65 years old) scheduled for total joint arthroplasty were randomly assigned to two groups: EPO-treated (EPO, n = 35) and placebo (control, n = 36). All patients completed the Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE) pre-operatively and on post-operative day (POD) 2. The confusion assessment method (CAM) was used to assess the patients until discharge (POD 5). Serum C-reactive protein (CRP) and inflammatory cytokine levels were measured and compared pre- and post-operatively. The development of delirium and cognitive dysfunction was evaluated post-operatively. One patient in the control group developed delirium on POD 2 (3.2%), whereas no patient in the EPO group developed PD (0% vs. 3.2%, p = 0.500). Post-operatively there was no significant difference in MMSE scores between groups. Both groups showed increases in pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokine levels, with no significant differences. Similarly, CRP levels, neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio (NLR), and platelet/lymphocyte ratio (PLR) showed no intergroup differences in post-operative inflammatory responses. Perioperative EPO reduced the incidence of post-operative delirium, although not statistically significant, with no differences in post-operative cognitive function and inflammatory responses. The trial was registered on December 12, 2023 at http//clinicaltrials.gov, registration number NCT06178835.

Effects of preoperative neoadjuvant chemotherapy on postoperative delirium in patients with gynecological tumor surgery: an observational study.

To investigate whether neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT) increases the incidence of postoperative delirium (POD) in patients with gynecological tumors undergoing radical hysterectomy. This study included 60 patients in the neoadjuvant chemotherapy exposure group and 60 in the non-exposure group. Preoperative cognitive function, the incidence of POD and other physiological parameters were assessed on preoperative day 1 (POD-1), postoperative day 1 (POD1), postoperative day 2 (POD2), and postoperative day 3 (POD3). Additionally, preoperative olfactory function was evaluated using an olfactory detection kit on POD-1. The primary outcome was the incidence of POD within three days after surgery. The incidence of POD was 28.33% in the exposed group and 8.33% in the non-exposed group (P = 0.005). Compared to the non-exposed group, the exposed group had a higher rate of cognitive dysfunction (33.33% vs 13.33%; P = 0.010), and a higher rate of olfactory dysfunction (OD) (25.00% vs 10.00%; P = 0.031). A restricted cubic spline analysis revealed a non-linear relationship between olfactory test scores and Montreal Cognitive Assessment Scale (MoCA) scores (P for overall < 0.001, P for nonlinear = 0.001). Logistic regression identified NACT, mild and moderate cognitive dysfunction, OD, and depression as independent risk factors for POD, with all factors showing significant associations (P < 0.05). The area under the curve (AUC) of OD for predicting POD was 0.783 (95%CI 0.656-0.909). This single-blind observational study suggests that NACT increases the incidence of POD in patients with gynecological tumors undergoing radical hysterectomy. Moreover, the results indicate that preoperative OD may reflect preoperative cognitive dysfunction, and have predictive value for the incidence of POD.

Effect of different durations of preoperative computerised cognitive training on postoperative delirium in older patients undergoing cardiac surgery: a study protocol for a prospective, randomised controlled trial

IntroductionPostoperative delirium (POD) is a common neurological complication after surgery among older patients, characterised by acute disturbances in consciousness, attention and cognition, usually occurring within 24–72 hours after surgery. POD...

Co-administration of dexmedetomidine with total intravenous anaesthesia in carotid endarterectomy reduces requirements for propofol and improves haemodynamic stability: A single-centre, prospective, randomised controlled trial.

Total intravenous anaesthesia guided by electroencephalography and neurophysiological monitoring may be used for carotid endarterectomy. Reduction of brain metabolic demand during cross-clamping of the internal carotid artery with propofol titrated to burst suppression requires effect-site concentrations that may delay emergence and interfere with intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring. To test the hypothesis that dexmedetomidine decreases the effect-site concentration of propofol required for burst-suppression in patients undergoing carotid endarterectomy. Randomised controlled trial. Patients undergoing carotid endarterectomy. University Hospital of Berne, Switzerland, from October 2018 to September 2024. Patients were randomised into a control (n = 23) and a dexmedetomidine groups (n = 22). Total intravenous anaesthesia was administered to both groups. Patients in the dexmedetomidine group received an intravenous bolus of dexmedetomidine (0.4 μg kg-1 over 10 min) before induction, followed by a continuous intravenous infusion (0.4 μg kg-1 h-1). The effect-site concentrations of propofol were titrated against frontal electroencephalography parameters. Burst suppression was induced with propofol during cross-clamping of the internal carotid artery. The primary outcome was the effect-site concentration of propofol required for burst-suppression. The secondary outcomes were the requirement for vasoactive substances, neurophysiological monitoring parameters, and postoperative delirium. The effect-site concentration of propofol required for burst suppression was 4.0 μg ml-1 [3.50 to 4.90] (median [interquartile range]) in the dexmedetomidine group compared with 6.0 μg ml-1 [5.5 to 7.3] in the control group (P < 0.001). Less norepinephrine was required in the dexmedetomidine group (total 454 μg [246 to 818] compared with 1000 μg [444 to 1326] (P = 0.015) in the control group). Dexmedetomidine did not affect intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring. Co-administration of dexmedetomidine to total intravenous anaesthesia for carotid endarterectomy decreased the effect-site concentrations of propofol required for burst suppression by 33%. The propofol-sparing effect and peripheral alpha-agonism of dexmedetomidine may explain the reduced requirement for vasopressors. Clinicaltrials.gov identifier: NCT04662177.

NCOG-15. CONNECTOME-BASED APPROACHES FOR PRESERVING COGNITIVE FUNCTION AND MINIMIZING DELIRIUM DURING GLIOMA RESECTION: A PILOT STUDY

Abstract AIM The surgical treatment of gliomas poses significant challenges due to the involvement of complex neural networks critical for cognitive functions. This study reviews the application of connectome-based approaches to minimize cognitive impairments and delirium during glioma resection, focusing on networks related to cognitive functions: the Default Mode Network (DMN), Dorsal Attention Network (DAN), Salience Network (SN), and Central Executive Network (CEN). METHODS Ten patients underwent surgery utilizing cloud-based connectomics software (Quicktome®), which maps the brain’s structural and functional connectivity. Preoperative MRIs with structural and functional connectome were performed for preoperative planning and intraoperative navigation. Preoperative neuropsychological assessments were conducted for elective cases. Only one patient was able to undergo awake craniotomy due to various medical, neurological and psychological limitations. Intraoperatively, with connectome-navigation guidance, a connectomics-based approach was conducted to preserve the networks. A semiquantitative analysis was performed as described (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36719613). Pre- and postoperative (inpatient and 2 week follow up) RASS and NuDESC delirium screenings were performed, with long-term cognitive evaluations and repeat connectomics imaging planned. RESULTS Three out of ten patients presented with rapid functional deterioration and needed urgent surgical decompression had postoperative delirium. Connectome analysis showed involvement of cognition-related networks in these patients. Two out of 3 patients showed improvement in delirium scores at a two-week follow-up after tumor resection. CONCLUSION This pilot study suggests that factors such as acute presentation, emergency surgery, and tumor location involving and disrupting the DMN, SN, DAN, and CEN networks may contribute to early postoperative delirium. The study may pave the way for the efficacy of connectomics in preserving cognitive functions post-operatively, particularly when awake craniotomy is not possible. This approach holds promise for improving surgical outcomes, survival, and the quality of life for patients with gliomas by mitigating the cognitive impacts of tumor resection and postoperative complications.

Comprehensive geriatric assessment for predicting postoperative delirium in oral and maxillofacial surgery: a prospective cohort study.

Identifying high-risk patients for developing postoperative delirium (POD) is essential for optimizing the medical field's human and financial resources through specialty-relevant geriatric assessments that can aid in establishing prehabilitation strategies. This study aims to identify geriatric screening tools to predict preoperative delirium and explore the high-risk elderly patients undergoing oral maxillofacial surgery. A comprehensive geriatric assessment encompassing 23 instruments was used to evaluate inpatients undergoing surgery under general anaesthesia, preoperatively and postoperatively. Selective intraoperative and postoperative variables were also assessed for their relation to POD occurrence. This prospective study included 90 patients (mean age 79.0 years) from August 2022 to August 2023. The POD rate in this cohort was (8.9% n = 8). The Clock-Drawing Test (CDT) was significantly associated with POD occurrence (p = 0.005). Significant associations were found between POD occurrence and operation type (p = 0.018), duration (p = 0.026), length of stay ( p = 0.002), and postoperative hemoglobin levels (p = 0.027). This study highlights the importance of comprehensive geriatric assessments in predicting POD in elderly patients. Future research should build on these findings to enhance preoperative care strategies and improve outcomes.Trial registration: German Register of Clinical Studies, DRKSID DRKS00028614.

Correlation Between Reduced Daily Living Competence and the Risk of Postoperative Delirium in Orthopedics and Trauma Surgery

Background/Objectives: Postoperative delirium is a prevalent and serious complication among elderly patients following surgical procedures. Prior research indicates that reduced competence in daily living, as evidenced by limitations in performing Activities of Daily Living (ADL), is directly associated with reduced patient mobility. This study aimed to investigate the potential role of preoperative mobility as a risk factor for the development of postoperative delirium. Methods: To assess preoperative mobility, a comprehensive geriatric evaluation of daily living competence was conducted. This included the Katz Index of Independence in ADL, which assessed basic daily activities over the preceding 14 days, and the Instrumental Activities of Daily Living Scale (IADL). Postoperatively, delirium monitoring was performed twice daily for seven days using validated delirium screening tools, including the Nursing Delirium Screening Scale, the Confusion Assessment Method, and the 4ATest. Results: A significant correlation was observed between the incidence of delirium and the IADL scores in all patients, with p &lt; 0.001 for men and p = 0.001 for women. Among emergency patients, the Katz Index scores significantly differed between those who developed delirium and those who did not (p = 0.015). Additionally, a significant correlation was found between the Katz Index and the incidence of delirium in both groups (p &lt; 0.001). Conclusions: The findings of this study emphasize the necessity of preoperative geriatric assessment using tools such as the Katz Index or IADL to identify patients at risk of delirium. The results confirm the importance of enhanced postoperative monitoring for potential delirium. For elective patients, prehabilitation should be considered when reduced daily living competence is identified. For emergency patients, immediate postoperative interventions, including intensive mobilization and orthogeriatric co-management, are recommended.

Association between duration of phenoxybenzamine use and postoperative delirium in suspected adrenal pheochromocytoma: a retrospective cohort study

BackgroundAt present, the available evidence regarding the relationship between duration of phenoxybenzamine use and postoperative delirium is inadequate in suspected adrenal pheochromocytoma.ObjectiveTo understand how changes in the duration of phenoxybenzamine use may affect postoperative delirium. The secondary objective of this study is to explore how the duration of phenoxybenzamine use may jointly influence postoperative delirium together with other interacting variables.MethodsWe conducted a retrospective cohort study involving 527 participants with a preoperative diagnosis of suspected pheochromocytoma. CT characteristics, preoperative preparation, intraoperative infusion, estimated bleeding, use of intraoperative vasoactive drugs, and outcomes were obtained from all participants. Logistic regression and interaction effects were utilized to substantiate the research objectives.ResultsA total of 108 (20.5%) developed postoperative delirium, which was seen in 37 (18.0%) in the pheochromocytoma group and 71 (22.0%) in the non-pheochromocytoma group. The incidence of postoperative delirium showed no statistically significant differences in the two groups. A positive association between the duration of phenoxybenzamine use and the risk of postoperative delirium was observed (OR = 1.05, 95%CI = 1.03–1.08, p &amp;lt; 0.01), independent of confounders. The relationship between the duration of phenoxybenzamine use and postoperative delirium differed according to the presence or absence of pheochromocytoma, suggesting an interactive effect (p &amp;lt; 0.05).ConclusionThis study highlights the influence of inappropriate duration of phenoxybenzamine use on the risk of incident postoperative delirium, independent of confounders. The effect of duration of phenoxybenzamine use causes a further increase in the risk of postoperative delirium, especially in non-pheochromocytomas.

Study on the predictive model of delirium risk after surgery for elderly hip fractures based on meta-analysis.

To develop and validate a risk prediction model for postoperative delirium in elderly patients with hip fractures, aiming to identify high-risk patients and implement preventive measures. A systematic search of five authoritative medical databases was conducted, retrieving a total of 1368 relevant articles. After screening, 44 high-quality studies were included in the meta-analysis, analyzing 13 potential risk factors, such as age, gender, diabetes, and history of stroke. A risk prediction model was constructed and validated in a cohort of 189 elderly hip fracture patients. The model's predictive performance was evaluated using ROC curves, with calibration assessed through the Hosmer-Lemeshow test, and clinical utility examined via Decision Curve Analysis (DCA) and Clinical Impact Curves (CIC). The meta-analysis identified the following as independent risk factors for postoperative delirium: age (≥ 70years), male gender, diabetes, history of stroke, preoperative comorbidities (≥ 2), previous delirium, preoperative cognitive impairment, low preoperative albumin levels (≤ 40g/L), prolonged preoperative waiting time (≥ 48h), anemia (≤ 100g/L), ASA classification (≥ 3), use of general anesthesia, and prolonged surgery duration (≥ 2h). The prediction model demonstrated strong efficiency in the validation cohort, with an AUC of 0.956, sensitivity of 87.3%, specificity of 94.8%, and a Brier score of 0.144, indicating high predictive accuracy and calibration. DCA and CIC analyses showed the model to have strong clinical decision-making value and impact across most thresholds. The risk prediction model developed in this study shows high predictive accuracy and clinical utility, making it valuable for identifying high-risk patients and implementing preventive measures in clinical practice. However, the study has limitations, such as potential retrospective bias, and further validation in larger, multicenter prospective studies is needed to confirm the model's broader applicability and stability.

AI-Assisted Identification of Primary and Secondary Metabolomic Markers for Postoperative Delirium.

Despite considerable investigative efforts, the molecular mechanisms of postoperative delirium (POD) remain unresolved. The present investigation employs innovative methodologies for identifying potential primary and secondary metabolic markers of POD by analyzing serum metabolomic profiles utilizing the genetic algorithm and artificial neural networks. The primary metabolomic markers constitute a combination of metabolites that optimally distinguish between POD and non-POD groups of patients. Our analysis revealed L-lactic acid, inositol, and methylcysteine as the most salient primary markers upon which the prediction accuracy of POD manifestation achieved AUC = 99%. The secondary metabolomic markers represent metabolites that exhibit perturbed correlational patterns within the POD group. We identified 54 metabolites as the secondary markers of POD, incorporating neurotransmitters such as gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and serotonin. These findings imply a systemic disruption in metabolic processes in patients with POD. The deployment of gene network reconstruction techniques facilitated the postulation of hypotheses describing the role of established genomic POD markers in the molecular-genetic mechanisms of metabolic pathways dysregulation, and involving the identified primary and secondary metabolomic markers. This study not only expands the understanding of POD pathogenesis but also introduces a novel technology for the bioinformatic analysis of metabolomic data that could aid in uncovering potential primary and secondary markers in diverse research domains.

Preoperative hypoxic biomarkers and postoperative delirium in patients with obstructive sleep apnea.

Postoperative delirium (POD) in patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is associated with increased mortality and healthcare costs. In this study, we investigated the association of OSA risk, serum biomarkers for central nervous ischemia (S100B and NSE), and POD. After research ethics approval, patients completed the STOP BANG assessment before undergoing elective surgery. Blood was drawn for S100B and NSE measurement, and cognitive performance was tested using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) at study admission and postoperatively at discharge. Delirium assessment was performed using the Nursing Delirium Screening Scale (NuDESC) and the Confusion Assessment Method (CAM). One hundred twenty-four enrolled patients were separated into three OSA-risk groups based on STOP BANG score testing (low risk, n = 22; intermediate risk, n = 67; high risk, n = 35). Preoperative NSE values increased with OSA risk (NSE in ng/ml; mean [range]; low risk: 15.6 [9.2-44.3]; intermediate risk: 21.8 [7.6-114.1]; high risk: 29.2 [10.1-151]; p = 0.039). Postoperative MoCA and NuDESC assessments were not different between the OSA-risk groups. We found a decreasing incidence for POD with increasing OSA risk (positive CAM: low risk: 18.1%, intermediate risk: 12.0%; high risk: 11.5%, p = 0.043). However, this was no longer detectable in a complete case analysis. In patients with POD, postoperative ischemic biomarker values were not different between OSA-risk groups. We found a trend of decreasing POD incidence with increasing OSA risk, which was not robust in a complete case analysis. Our results possibly support the phenomenon of hypoxic preconditioning.

Cerebral Overperfusion Despite Reduced Cortical Metabolism Is Associated with Postoperative Delirium in Cardiac Surgery Patients: A Prospective Observational Study.

Background: Decreased cerebral oximetry (rSO2) in cardiac surgery is associated with postoperative delirium (POD). However, interventions optimizing intraoperative rSO2 are inconclusive. Methods: In this prospective observational cohort study, the relationship between rSO2, middle cerebral artery blood flow velocity (MCAV), and processed EEG was assessed in cardiac surgery patients with and without POD. MCAV was continuously recorded by transcranial Doppler sonography (TCD), together with continuous rSO2 and bispectral index (BIS) monitoring. Cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) flow rate was adjusted according to body surface area. The cohort was divided into the POD and control groups, according to the postoperative results of the confusion assessment method (CAM/CAM-ICU), the 4A's test (4AT), and the Delirium Observation Scale (DOS). A mixed model analysis was performed for intraoperative raw data. The cerebral autoregulation index was calculated from TCD, rSO2, and arterial pressure values. Differences in impaired autoregulation were compared using the Mann-Whitney U test. Results: A total of 41 patients were included in this study. A total of 13 patients (36.11%) developed postoperative delirium. There were no significant differences in the baseline characteristics of patients with or without POD. Patients with POD had lower BIS values during CPB (adjusted mean difference -4.449 (95% CI [-7.978, -0.925])). RSO2 was not significantly reduced in POD, (adjusted mean difference: -5.320, 95% CI [-11.508, 0.874]). In contrast, MCAV was significantly increased in POD (10.655, 95% CI [0.491, 20.819]). The duration of cerebral autoregulation impairment did not differ significantly for TCD and cerebral oximetry-derived indices (p = 0.4528, p = 0.2715, respectively). Conclusions: Our results suggest that disturbed cerebral metabolism reflects a vulnerable brain which may be more susceptible to overperfusion during CPB, which can be seen in increased MCAV values. These phenomena occur irrespectively of cerebral autoregulation.

Prediction of Postoperative Delirium in Older Adults from Preoperative Cognition and Occipital Alpha Power from Resting-State Electroencephalogram.

Postoperative delirium is the most common complication following surgery among older adults, and has been consistently associated with increased mortality and morbidity, cognitive decline, and loss of independence, as well as markedly increased health-care costs. Electroencephalography (EEG) spectral slowing has frequently been observed during episodes of delirium, whereas intraoperative frontal alpha power is associated with postoperative delirium. We sought to identify preoperative predictors that could identify individuals at high risk for postoperative delirium, which could guide clinical decision-making and enable targeted interventions to potentially decrease delirium incidence and postoperative delirium-related complications. In this prospective observational study, we used machine learning to evaluate whether baseline (preoperative) cognitive function and resting-state EEG could be used to identify patients at risk for postoperative delirium. Preoperative resting-state EEGs and the Montreal Cognitive Assessment were collected from 85 patients (age = 73 +- 6.4 years, 12 cases of delirium) undergoing elective surgery. The model with the highest f1-score was subsequently validated in an independent, prospective cohort of 51 older adults (age = 68 +- 5.2 years, 6 cases of delirium) undergoing elective surgery. Occipital alpha powers have higher f1-score than frontal alpha powers and EEG spectral slowing in the training cohort. Occipital alpha powers were able to predict postoperative delirium with AUC, specificity and accuracy all >90%, and sensitivity >80%, in the validation cohort. Notably, models incorporating transformed alpha powers and cognitive scores outperformed models incorporating occipital alpha powers alone or cognitive scores alone. While requiring prospective validation in larger cohorts, these results suggest that strong prediction of postoperative delirium may be feasible in clinical settings using simple and widely available clinical tools. Additionally, our results suggested that the thalamocortical circuit exhibits different EEG patterns under different stressors, with occipital alpha powers potentially reflecting baseline vulnerabilities.

Effect of perioperative dexmedetomidine on postoperative delirium in patients with brain tumours: a protocol of a randomised controlled trial

IntroductionNeurosurgery is a risk factor for postoperative delirium. Dexmedetomidine has a potential effect on reducing postoperative delirium. We aim to test the primary hypothesis that perioperative administration of dexmedetomidine reduces...

Pharmacologic prophylaxis of postoperative delirium in elderly patients: A network meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

BackgroundThe high incidence and mortality rates of postoperative delirium (POD) among elderly patients highlights the pressing need for tailored prophylactic strategies. Despite various pharmacologic prophylactic strategies have been reported effective, their overall benefit and safety remain unclear in the geriatric population. Our network meta-analysis (NMA) aimed to systematically evaluate and rank the effectiveness of various pharmacological interventions in preventing POD in elderly patients. MethodsWe conducted an extensive search of PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, PsycINFO, and Google Scholar for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) published up to August 1, 2023. We included RCTs examining pharmacological prophylactic effects of POD in elderly patients. To extract data in alignment with predefined areas of interest, we employed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses guidelines. The primary outcome was the incidence of POD. For secondary outcomes, we evaluated tolerability through all-cause discontinuation or drop-out rates, as well as all-cause mortality. ResultsOur analysis encompassed a total of 44 RCTs involving 11,178 patients. Out of these, 26 RCTs involved comparisons with placebo only. For delirium prevention, the treatment groups receiving atypical antipsychotics (odds ratio (OR) of 0.27 and 95% confidence interval (CI) of 0.12-0.58), haloperidol (OR of 0.42; 95% CI of 0.25-0.71), dexmedetomidine (OR of 0.51 and 95% CI of 0.37-0.71 and melatonergic agents (MMA) (OR of 0.57 and 95% CI of 0.33-0.98) had significantly lower rates of delirium compared to the placebo group. Notably, the atypical antipsychotics ranked as the most effective treatment. For tolerability, no statistically differences in rates of dropout discontinuation and all-cause mortality among groups allocated to the placebo or individual pharmacological treatments. ConclusionsBased on indirect evidence, our network meta-analysis identified atypical antipsychotics, dexmedetomidine, MMA, and haloperidol as effective in preventing POD in the elderly, with atypical antipsychotics ranking highest. However, it is essential to note that these findings should be confirmed through further RCTs.

Preoperative neurofilament light associated with postoperative delirium in hip fracture repair patients without dementia

Delirium commonly occurs in older adults following surgery; although its pathophysiology is not fully understood, underlying neurodegeneration is a risk factor. Examine the association of preoperative levels of markers of neuronal damage, neurofilament light (NfL) and phosphorylated tau (p-tau)181, with postoperative delirium. Preoperative CSF and plasma were obtained from 158 patients undergoing hip fracture repair and enrolled in the clinical trial "A STrategy to Reduce the Incidence of Postoperative Delirium in Elderly Patients" (STRIDE). Delirium diagnosis was adjudicated by a consensus panel. The association of plasma and CSF NfL and p-tau181 levels with delirium incidence and severity were examined for the overall cohort and for the subgroup (n=134) of patients without dementia. Patients who developed delirium were older, had lower Mini-Mental State Exam (MMSE) score, higher Clinical Dementia Rating (CDR) and Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS) scores at baseline; the overall incidence of delirium was 37.6% and 31.1% for the subgroup without dementia. Plasma and CSF p-tau181 levels were not associated with delirium incidence or severity. CSF NfL levels were significantly associated with delirium severity, but not with incidence in the overall cohort. In the subgroup of patients without dementia, CSF NfL levels were significantly associated with increased odds of delirium incidence (OR 4.74, 95% CI 1.21-18.59, p=0.03) adjusted for age, sex, and CDR. CSF NfL was significantly associated with delirium incidence and severity in patients without dementia undergoing hip fracture repair. Results confirm prior studies suggesting NfL as an important marker of delirium risk and supports an association between pre-existing axonal injury and delirium. These results highlight delirium vulnerability in older hip fracture patients, even when clinical dementia is not identified.

Effects of cognitive training on cognitive function in patients after cardiac surgery: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

Postoperative cognitive deficits frequently occur in patients undergoing cardiac surgery, leaving them with reduced cognitive function. Cognitive training has been shown to improve cognitive function, however, the role in patients after cardiac surgery is unclear. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of cognitive training in patients undergoing cardiac surgery. A systematic search of PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, CINAHL, Ovid Medline, Web of Science, CNKI, and Wanfang was conducted until March 2024. The risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool. Data were meta-analyzed using RevMan 5.4 software. Potential bias and reliability of evidence were fairly assessed by using the Cochrane risk of bias method and the GRADE evidence grading method. A total of 16 studies involving 1335 cardiac surgery patients were included in this study. Compared with the control group, the cognitive training group had a significantly lower incidence of postoperative cognitive dysfunction (RR 0.35, 95% CI 0.18-0.65, P = .001), significantly improved cognitive function (MD 2.54, 95% CI 1.27-3.81, P < .001), and a significantly higher quality of life-mental component (MD 5.22, 95% CI 2.32-8.13, P < .001), anxiety (MD -6.05, 95% CI -10.96 to -1.15, P = .02) and depression (MD -3.97, 95% CI -7.15 to -0.80, P = .01) were significantly improved between groups. However, the differences were not statistically significant for postoperative delirium (RR 1, 95% CI 0.38-2.65, P = 1.00) and postoperative hospitalization (MD -0.95, 95% CI -2.90 to 1.00, P = .34). The present study, based on a low to moderate quality of evidence, suggests that cognitive training improves cognitive functioning, reduces the incidence of postoperative cognitive dysfunction, and has a positive impact on anxiety and depression in patients undergoing cardiac surgery. However, current evidence does not allow for the determination of effects on quality of life, postoperative delirium, and postoperative length of stay.

The effect of intraoperative midazolam on postoperative delirium in older surgical patients: a prospective, multicentre cohort study.

Midazolam is a short-acting benzodiazepine frequently used in the perioperative setting. This study aimed to investigate the potential impact of intraoperative midazolam on postoperative delirium (POD) in older patients undergoing non-cardiac surgery. This study included patients aged ≥ 65 years who received general anaesthesia between April 2020 and April 2022 in multiple hospitals across China. POD occurring within 7 days was assessed using the 3-minute Diagnostic Interview for Confusion Assessment Method (3D-CAM). Univariable and multivariable logistic regression models based on the random effects were used to determine the association between midazolam administration and the occurrence of POD, presented as risk ratio (RR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI). Kaplan-Meier cumulative incidence curve was plotted to compare the distribution of time to POD onset between patients who received midazolam and those who did not. Subgroup analyses based on specific populations were performed to explore the relationship between midazolam and POD. In all, 5,663 patients were included, of whom 723 (12.8%) developed POD. Univariate and multivariable logistic regression analyses based on random effects of different hospitals showed no significant association between midazolam medication and POD among older population (unadjusted RR=0.96, 95% CI: 0.90-1.30, P=0.38; adjusted RR=1.09, 95% CI: 0.91-1.33, P=0.35). Kaplan-Meier curve showed no difference in the distribution of time to POD onset (Hazard ratio [HR]=1.02, 95%CI: 0.88-1.18, P=0.82). The results of subgroup analyses found that intraoperative midazolam treatment was not associated with POD in the specific subgroups of patients. Intraoperative administration of midazolam may not be associated with an increased risk of POD in older patients undergoing non-cardiac surgery.

Predisposing and precipitating factors of post-operative delirium after transfemoral TAVI

Abstract Background Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) represents the treatment of choice for aortic stenosis (AS) patients at higher age (&amp;gt; 75y) or with relevant comorbidities. Post-operative delirium (POD) is a frequent complication which has been associated with worse outcome. Thus, preventive options are highly needed. The aim of our single-center study was to investigate predisposing and precipitating factors of POD after transfemoral TAVI, with a focus on the influence of anaesthesia. Methods Risk factors for POD after TAVI were analysed in 2 merged cohorts of 480 study patients (43% women; mean age 80 years), enrolled in 2017-2022 (n=375, TAVI in 95% in general anaesthesia) and in 2022-2024 (n=105, TAVI in 91% in local anaesthesia). Incidence of POD was evaluated retrospectively by nursing documentation, medical records, and DRG coding. The association of demographics, comorbidities, echo parameters, procedural parameters, anaesthesia, and peri-procedural complications with POD incidence was investigated. Results In total, 29 patients (6%) developed POD, with a tendency towards a lower incidence in the later cohort (6.7% vs. 3.8%; p=0.28). Regarding baseline characteristics, patients experiencing POD were more likely to be male (p=0.03), frail (Katz Index &amp;lt;6, p=0.049), and to suffer from low-gradient AS (p=0.005 for paradoxical, p=0.02 for classical low-flow, low-gradient AS; see also fig. 1A). Total procedure time was significantly longer in patients with POD (median, 86 vs. 62 min, p=0.004; fig 1B), and a tendency towards a more frequent implantation of other than ballon-expandable valves could be observed (p=0.07). Concerning the role of anaesthesia, POD did not differ significantly after general anaesthesia (n=24/360, 6.7%), conscious sedation (n=1/19, 5.3%), and local anaesthesia (n=4/100, 4%) (p=0.38). Regarding procedural complications, POD patients were characterized by lower minimum hemoglobin post-TAVI (9.3 vs. 10.1 g/dl, p=0.05; fig. 1C) and higher incidences of intra-procedural resuscitation (11% vs. 2%, p=0.03), cerebrovascular accidents (10% vs. 2%, p=0.04) and new permanent pacemaker implantations (25% vs. 10%, p=0.02). In POD patients, long-term survival after TAVI was significantly reduced, with a median survival of only 2 years (Kaplan-Meier curves in fig. 2; p=0.001). Conclusions POD after TAVI stays common and unfavourable. The role of anaesthesia seems less pronounced than expected. Total procedure time and relevant anaemia after TAVI emerged as most important modifiable risk factors. Future research is warranted, since strategies to reduce precipitating factors for POD may have a significant impact on post-TAVI outcomes.Selected risk factors for PODConsequence of POD: Reduced Survival

The correlation between the confusion assessment method for intensive care units 7-item, the intensive care delirium screening checklist and adverse outcomes after post-cardiac surgery delirium

Abstract Background Postoperative Delirium(POD) and Subsyndromal Delirium(SSD) remain prevalent, particularly among the cardiovascular surgical population due to the utilization of cardiopulmonary bypass. Adverse outcomes, such as prolonged ICU stay, extended length of stay, and increased incidence of adverse events, are associated with individuals diagnosed with Postoperative Delirium or those experiencing fluctuations between Postoperative Delirium and Subsyndromal Delirium during ICU stays. Therefore, early delirium screening is of utmost importance. The Intensive Care Delirium Screening Checklist(ICDSC) and the Confusion Assessment Method for the Intensive Care Unit 7-item(CAM-ICU-7) are validated delirium screening instruments for critical patients. Purpose This study aims to determine whether the ICDSC or the CAM-ICU-7 is the superior predictor for adverse outcomes following Postoperative Delirium among the cardiovascular population. Methods In this prospective cohort study, 84 patients who underwent elective cardiovascular surgery underwent a total of 833 paired assessments(ICDSC and CAM-ICU-7) twice daily by the researcher. The correlation between the results of ICDSC and CAM-ICU-7 was evaluated. Multiple linear regression was employed to explore associations between ICDSC and CAM-ICU-7 and length of ICU stay, length of overall stay, and the total number of adverse events. The best model was selected after testing with Pearson's correlation coefficient, Hotelling's t, and Steiger's Z tests. Logistic regression explored associations between ICDSC and CAM-ICU-7 and adverse events. Results Postoperative Delirium incidence evaluated by the ICDSC and CAM-ICU-7 was 47.61% and 45.23%, respectively. The incidence of fluctuations between Postoperative Delirium and Subsyndromal Delirium evaluated by the ICDSC and CAM-ICU-7 was 34.52% and 21.43%, respectively. The agreement between the ICDSC and CAM-ICU-7 is high(kappa = 0.835, p&amp;lt;0.001) in detecting Postoperative Delirium but fair in detecting Subsyndromal Delirium(kappa = 0.213, p&amp;lt;0.001). Our research revealed that the length of ICU stay can be predicted by POD(detected by ICDSC and CAM-ICU-7) and fluctuated POD and SSD(detected by ICDSC but not CAM-ICU-7). However, only fluctuated POD and SSD detected by ICDSC could predict hospital length of stay. The total number of adverse events and incidence could be predicted by POD either detected by ICDSC or CAM-ICU-7 but only fluctuated POD and SSD detected by ICDSC, not CAM-ICU-7, could predict the total number of adverse events. Conclusions Both ICDSC and CAM-ICU-7 can detect Postoperative Delirium with high agreement. However, ICDSC could identify more individuals with both Postoperative Delirium and Subsyndromal Delirium, thus predicting more adverse outcomes than CAM-ICU-7. Therefore, ICDSC emerges as the superior delirium screening instrument for the cardiovascular population.