Cause 4: Surgery – Beyond the Scalpel’s Edge
Undergoing surgery, no matter how routine, is a significant event for the body. It’s an orchestrated trauma, where the body is incised, and then repaired. Beyond the immediate physical implications, surgery can sometimes lead to unexpected neurological repercussions, namely, postoperative delirium.
But what makes a surgical patient vulnerable to delirium? Several factors come into play. Anesthesia, the drugs used to induce a reversible unconscious state, can sometimes linger in the system, especially in older adults, leading to confusion. The body’s stress response to surgery, a surge in certain hormones and inflammatory markers, can also influence brain function.
There’s also the aspect of pain management. Postoperative pain, if not adequately controlled, can lead to distress and delirium. On the flip side, certain pain medications, if too potent or used in excess, can be deliriogenic (cause delirium).
Awareness is the first step toward prevention. By recognizing those at risk, especially elderly individuals or those with a prior history of cognitive impairment, medical teams can implement strategies to minimize delirium risk. Tailored anesthesia techniques, optimal pain management, and early mobilization post-surgery are just some interventions that can make a difference. Delirium post-surgery is not a certainty but a possibility—one that can be minimized with proactive care. (4)
