Nitric oxide index is not a predictor of cognitive dysfunction following laparotomy.
OBJECTIVE
To determine the associations between postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD) and plasma concentrations of stable nitric oxide products [nitric oxide index (NOi)].


METHODS
Prospective study.


METHODS
Academic hospital.


METHODS
28 ASA physical status I, II, and III physical status patients undergoing major non-cardiac surgery.


METHODS
Cognitive assessment was performed preoperatively and postoperatively at 4 days (early) and 6 weeks (late).


METHODS
Serial measurements of plasma NOi were recorded.


RESULTS
Early POCD with a deficit in one cognitive domain was present in 18 patients (64%), and in 8 patients (28%) with deficits in two or more cognitive domains. Late POCD was evident in three patients (20%) who had a deficit in one domain. Eight patients were lost to late follow-up. There was no difference in baseline or subsequent serum concentrations of NOi between those who showed early and late POCD and those who showed no POCD.


CONCLUSIONS
Factors other than nitric oxide-mediated injury is responsible for POCD following major non-cardiac surgery.
Twomey
Ciaran
C
Department of Anaesthesia and Intensive Care Medicine, Cork University Hospital and University College Cork, Ireland. ctwomey@ualberta.ca <ctwomey@ualberta.ca>
Corrigan
Mark
M
Burlacu
Crina
C
Butler
Mark
M
Iohom
Gabriella
G
Shorten
George
G
D015415:Biomarkers / Q000097:blood; D003072:Cognition Disorders / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000209:etiology; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007813:Laparotomy / Q000009:adverse effects; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009569:Nitric Oxide / Q000097:blood*; D011183:Postoperative Complications / Q000175:diagnosis*; D011237:Predictive Value of Tests; D011446:Prospective Studies
D015415:Biomarkers; D009569:Nitric Oxide