Postoperative Cognitive Dysfunction after General Anesthesia in Alcoholic and Non-Alcoholic Patients Aged 18–80 Undergoing Non-Cardiac Surgery: A Prospective Observational Study
Keywords:
Alcoholism, Cognitive Dysfunction, General Anesthesia, MMSE, Non-cardiac SurgeryAbstract
Background: Postoperative Cognitive Dysfunction (POCD) is a recognized complication of general anesthesia (GA), particularly in vulnerable populations such as the elderly and individuals with a history of alcohol abuse. While POCD has been extensively studied in cardiac surgeries, limited data exists on its incidence following non-cardiac procedures in alcoholics. This study aimed to evaluate and compare the incidence and progression of POCD in alcoholic and non-alcoholic patients aged 18–80 undergoing elective non-cardiac surgeries under GA.
Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted over 18 months in a tertiary care center. A total of 124 male patients, divided equally into alcoholic (Group A) and non-alcoholic (Group NA) groups, were assessed preoperatively and postoperatively using the Mini Mental Status Examination (MMSE) on days 0, 1, 3, and 5. Intraoperative and postoperative parameters were recorded and analyzed.
Results: Baseline MMSE scores were comparable in both groups (p > 0.05). However, Group A showed significantly lower MMSE scores at 24 hours (p < 0.05) and day 3 (p < 0.05) postoperatively, indicating transient POCD, which normalized by day 5. ICU admissions were significantly higher in Group A (19.4%) compared to Group NA (3.2%, p < 0.05). Other variables, including demographic, clinical, and intraoperative parameters, were comparable.
Conclusion: Alcoholic patients are at increased risk for early postoperative cognitive impairment and ICU admission following non-cardiac surgery under GA. Preoperative screening and tailored perioperative care are essential in this high-risk group to reduce adverse outcomes.
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