Postoperative cognitive dysfunction

Postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD) is a decline in cognitive function (especially in memory and executive functions) that may last from 1–12 months after surgery, or longer.[1] In some cases, this disorder may persist for several years after major surgery.[2] POCD is distinct from emergence delirium. Its causes are under investigation and occurs commonly in older patients and those with pre-existing cognitive impairment.[2]

The causes of POCD are not understood. It does not appear to be caused by lack of oxygen or impaired blood flow to the brain[3] and is equally likely under regional and general anesthesia.[2][4] The cause of postoperative cognitive dysfunction are not clear. It is thought that it may be caused by the body's inflammatory response to surgery, stress hormone release during surgery, ischemia, or hypoxaemia.[5][6]

Post-operative cognitive dysfunction can complicate a person's recovery from surgery, delay discharge from hospital, delay returning to work following surgery, and reduce a person's quality of life.[6]

  1. ^ Graham, Judith (April 12, 2018). "What We Know And Don't Know About Memory Loss After Surgery". Washington Post. Retrieved April 24, 2022.
  2. ^ a b c Cite error: The named reference Newman2007 was invoked but never defined (see the help page).
  3. ^ Cite error: The named reference ISPOCD1998 was invoked but never defined (see the help page).
  4. ^ Cite error: The named reference Rasmussen2006 was invoked but never defined (see the help page).
  5. ^ Cite error: The named reference Stenvall2011 was invoked but never defined (see the help page).
  6. ^ a b Punjasawadwong, Yodying; Chau-In, Waraporn; Laopaiboon, Malinee; Punjasawadwong, Sirivimol; Pin-On, Pathomporn (2018-05-15). "Processed electroencephalogram and evoked potential techniques for amelioration of postoperative delirium and cognitive dysfunction following non-cardiac and non-neurosurgical procedures in adults". The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. 5 (5): CD011283. doi:10.1002/14651858.CD011283.pub2. ISSN 1469-493X. PMC 6494561. PMID 29761891.