Methodological issues in the assessment of neuropsychologic function after cardiac surgery.
This report reviews critical issues facing investigators interested in neuropsychologic sequelae after cardiac operations: (1) experimental design; (2) selective attrition; (3) selection of instruments; (4) moderating factors; (5) definitions of cognitive decline; (6) statistical analysis; and (7) clinical significance. Implications for further research in the area are discussed.
Blumenthal
J A
JA
Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina 27710, USA.
Mahanna
E P
EP
Madden
D J
DJ
White
W D
WD
Croughwell
N D
ND
Newman
M F
MF
D003072:Cognition Disorders / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology; D001026:Coronary Artery Bypass / Q000009:adverse effects*; D006801:Humans; D009483:Neuropsychological Tests