Coronary artery bypass grafting has a mortality rate of only 1.4%, but it can lead to cognitive impairment.
This subject is a recurring study among surgeons and the subject of many conversations. After these interventions and after a few years, the cognitive impairment of patients after the procedure began to be investigated in depth.
In fact, an important study published by Duke University in 2001 says that, even if momentary, some types of mental sequelae can be measured after the procedure.
Learn more about the relationship between cognitive impairment after coronary artery bypass graft surgery in this article!
What is the relationship between myocardial revascularization and cognitive changes?
In the United States alone, around 400,000 coronary artery bypass grafting procedures have been carried out, making it one of the most performed cardiovascular surgeries in the world.
Despite the large number of successful interventions, some patients show a certain degree of cognitive impairment after surgery.
Among the main problems are a higher risk of stroke, POD (post-operative delirium) and POCD (post-operative cognitive dysfunction).
These cognitive impairments are directly related to the surgery, since before undergoing the procedure the patients had no pathological signs, such as attention deficit, slower thinking and movement, delusions, impaired concentration, among others.
Despite being a set of problems that worry both patients and their families, most cases resolve without medical intervention or medication within a few weeks.
Gradually, neurological symptoms tend to subside, but some cases can take months to completely heal.
What causes cognitive impairment?
There is, in fact, no confirmed theory of what actually causes cognitive impairment after coronary artery bypass graft surgery, which puzzles cardiologists.
However, there are several hypotheses as to what actually happens. The most notorious in medical circles is that small blood clots may be generated during surgery, which travel to the brain and cause damage.
Also known as microemboli, their presence is confirmed by transcranial Doppler studies in most patients.
Another study that gives strength to this theory is that patients who have any neurological damage after surgery have small strokes in various parts of the brain.
It is essential to point out that even though there are strong indications, there is still no proof of this cause and effect relationship.
How can cognitive impairment be prevented during coronary artery bypass graft surgery?
Knowing the neurological risks during coronary artery bypass graft surgery makes it easier to prevent and even treat any cognitive changes after the procedure.
A major challenge is to be able to prevent these neurological risks, since we are not sure what might really be behind them.
However, doctors around the world are taking some measures that show good results. These include:
- minimizing manipulation of the aorta,
- reduced use of arterial suction,
- use of membrane oxygenators,
- careful monitoring of the patient's vital signs and temperature.
Now that you know about the relationship between cognitive impairment and coronary artery bypass grafting, how about keeping up with other topics related to heart health? Keep following our blog and read other articles, we have up-to-date information and interesting news about cardiology!
