Anesthesia and postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD).
POCD describes a decline in cognitive function after surgery with a predominance in the elderly patient. Although there is general agreement that POCD is likely to be multifactorial, whether its occurrence is a result of the effects of surgery or general anesthesia remains unclear. This review provides a synopsis of the available clinical and preclinical data and summarizes recent research relevant to the occurrence of POCD and possible pharmacologic algorithms for its prevention and treatment.
Jungwirth
Bettina
B
Department of Anesthesiology, Technische Universität München, Klinik rechts der Isar, Munich, Germany.
Zieglgänsberger
Walter
W
Kochs
Eberhard
E
Rammes
Gerhard
G
D000768:Anesthesia, General / Q000009:adverse effects*; D003072:Cognition Disorders / Q000209:etiology* / Q000628:therapy; D006801:Humans; D011183:Postoperative Complications / Q000209:etiology* / Q000517:prevention & control; D012307:Risk Factors