The Role of Cerebral Oximetry in Predicting and Preventing Postoperative Cognitive Dysfunction

Abstract

Postoperative Cognitive Dysfunction (POCD) is a serious problem that is frequently seen especially in elderly patients and can cause permanent cognitive decline, prolonged hospital stay, loss of independence, decreased quality of life and even mortality. Identifying individuals at risk of developing POCD can prevent this condition by enabling the development of early interventions. POCD has a multifactorial etiology, and intraoperative cerebral perfusion disorder is considered to be one of these mechanisms. Near-infrared Spectroscopy (NIRS) device provides monitoring of regional brain oxygenation. There are studies on the predictability and preventability of cognitive disorders that may develop after surgery with the use of NIRS. In this article, it is aimed to present the study results and inferences regarding the relationships between the areas of use of NIRS and the pathogenesis of POCD.