Research progress in prevention of postoperative delirium

Abstract

Postoperative delirium is a common acute confusion state that frequently occurs in patients following surgery. It is characterized by fluctuating consciousness, inattention, disorganized thinking, and altered level of consciousness. Postoperative delirium leads to cognitive decline and dementia, increases the risk of post-operative complications and mortality, and reduces patients’ quality of life. Since the pathogenesis of postoperative delirium is unclear and there is no effective treatment, early diagnosis and early intervention are key to preventing and treating postoperative delirium. Currently, the prevention of postoperative delirium is mainly based on non-pharmacological prevention and treatment, whereas some drugs are gradually starting to be used. In the future, efforts are needed to clarify the effect of treatment and to guide the development of a series of more effective and rational delirium treatment strategies adapted to specific national context.

Keywords

postoperative delirium / prevention / pharmacological interventions / non-pharmacological interventions