Measuring and monitoring cognition in the postoperative period. Issue 1 (March 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Piggin, Lucy H.; Newman, Stanton P.
• Is Part Of: Best practice & research. Volume 34:Issue 1(2020)
• Page Start: e1
• Page End: e12
• Publication Date: 2020-03
• Subjects: postoperative cognition -- recovery -- measurement -- cognitive testing; Anesthesiology -- Periodicals; Anesthesia -- Periodicals; Anesthesia -- Periodicals; Anesthetics -- Periodicals; Anesthesia; Anesthesiology; Periodicals; 617.9605
• DOI: 10.1016/j.bpa.2018.11.002
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1521-6869

Abstract

Abstract : It is common for patients of all ages to experience some degree of cognitive disturbance following surgery. In most cases, impairment appears mild and is restricted to the acute post-operative period, resolving steadily and speedily. In a small number of cases, however, deficits may be more pronounced and/or endure for longer periods, significantly delaying recovery and increasing the risk of serious clinical complications. The ability to accurately measure postoperative cognition, and track recovery of function, is an important clinical task. This review explores practical and methodological issues that may confound this process, examining how best to obtain reliable and meaningful measures of cognition before and after surgery. It considers neuropsychological test selection, administration, analysis and interpretation and offers evidence-based practice points for clinicians and researchers.