Association of inflammation, oxidative stress, and deteriorated cognitive functions in patients after cardiac surgery

Abstract

The study is focused on the connection between cognitive dysfunction, inflammatory processes, oxidative stress, and various associated biological factors. Postoperative cognitive dysfunction is a condition where a patient exhibits a temporary deterioration in cognitive function after surgery, which may include problems with memory, concentration, and overall cognitive performance. While most common among elderly patients, it can occur in individuals of any age. The causes are not fully elucidated, but it is assumed that peripheral trauma during long-term surgical interventions is behind the development of inflammation and the creation of conditions of oxidative stress, which leads to the disruption of the blood-brain barrier and the subsequent development of cognitive impairment. This review aims to describe the detected changes at the level of selected markers of inflammation and oxidative damage in patients, primarily in connection with cardiac surgery.