• M P Ntalouka, E Arnaoutoglou, and P Tzimas.
• Department of Anesthesiology and Postoperative Intensive Care, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece.
• Hippokratia. 2018 Oct 1; 22 (4): 147154147-154.

BackgroundCognitive dysfunction is a common complication after surgery. It is a major cause for increased, sometimes long-term, morbidity and mortality.MethodsIn this narrative review we performed a literature search regarding postoperative cognitive decline regarding risk factors, the type of surgical intervention, potential neuroprotective effects of anesthetic drugs, and associated quality of life and healthcare costs.ResultsSeveral risk factors are implicated in postoperative cognitive impairment. Cardiac surgery and specific orthopedic interventions are associated with a higher incidence of postoperative cognitive disorders. Results regarding the neuroprotective effects of anesthetics agents are still controversial but promising. Postoperative cognitive alterations are a major public healthcare issue as they impair the everyday quality of life, and expand the yearlong expenses.ConclusionsPostoperative cognitive disorders are devastating, potentially life-threatening complications. High-suspicion, especially in high-risk patients and operations, and adoption of available neuroprotective strategies may prove lifesaving. HIPPOKRATIA 2018, 22(4): 147-154.Copyright 2018, Hippokratio General Hospital of Thessaloniki.

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