Copyright: Clinics Cardive Publishing (Pty) Ltd. publisher
of Cardiovascular Journal of Africa.
Abstract
Background:
Postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD) following noncardiac surgery in the elderly is a growing concern. This study evaluates the relationship between carotid intima-media thickness (cIMT), a measure of subclinical atherosclerosis, and POCD.
Methods: In this prospective study, elderly patients (≥60 years) undergoing elective noncardiac surgery were divided into two groups based on cIMT. Cognitive assessments were conducted preoperatively and postoperatively using the mini-mental state examination, clock-drawing, digit span, trail-making, and Stroop tests.
Results: The study included 36 patients, with no significant differences in cognitive test outcomes between those with cIMT ≤0.9 mm and >0.9 mm. The overall incidence of POCD was 2.8%.
Conclusion: Increased cIMT was not associated with a higher risk of POCD. Larger studies are necessary to confirm these findings.
Methods: In this prospective study, elderly patients (≥60 years) undergoing elective noncardiac surgery were divided into two groups based on cIMT. Cognitive assessments were conducted preoperatively and postoperatively using the mini-mental state examination, clock-drawing, digit span, trail-making, and Stroop tests.
Results: The study included 36 patients, with no significant differences in cognitive test outcomes between those with cIMT ≤0.9 mm and >0.9 mm. The overall incidence of POCD was 2.8%.
Conclusion: Increased cIMT was not associated with a higher risk of POCD. Larger studies are necessary to confirm these findings.
Keywords:
Cognitive Function,Atherosclerosis,Carotid Intima-Media Thickness
Submitted: August 19, 2024;
Accepted: November 11, 2024;
Published: June 30, 2025
Cardiovasc J Afr 2025; 36: 172-179
Volume 36, Issue 2
Cardiovasc J Afr 2025; 36: 172-179
Volume 36, Issue 2
DOI Citation Reference: dx.doi.org/10.5830/CVJA-2025-017