Role of Dyslipidemia in Postoperative Delirium

Abstract

Introduction: Postoperative delirium (POD) is a condition characterized by an acute decline in cognitive function and attention, often seen in older adults.

Objective: This study aims to investigate the relationship between preoperative lipid levels and the development of postoperative delirium.

Method: This retrospective study included 41 patients who developed delirium after knee and hip operations in our hospital. Delirium was diagnosed by psychiatrists using the 'Confusion Rating Scale' questionnaire. Demographic characteristics, comorbidities, blood biochemistry and lipid levels were investigated.

Results: The mean age of patients who developed POD was 68.63±7.59 years and 61% were female. Total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), low density lipoprotein (LDL), non-high density lipoprotein (HDL) levels and TG/HDL, LDL/HDL ratios were significantly higher in patients who developed postoperative delirium than in the control group (p<0.05). C-Reactive Protein (CRP) and ferritin levels were significantly higher in the group with postoperative delirium than in the control group (p<0.001, p= 0.003).

Conclusion: In conclusion, we found that preoperative TC, TG, LDL and non-HDL levels and new lipid-related biomarkers TG/HDL and LDL/HDL ratios were significantly higher in patients with POD compared to the control group. Lipid levels should be taken into consideration in the evaluation of the risk of postoperative delirium in patients and necessary precautions should be taken to improve the prognosis.