Postoperative Cognitive Dysfunction and Virtual Reality for Cognitive Rehabilitation in Cardiac Surgery Patients: A Short Review

Abstract

Postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD) has been observed as a complication after cardiac surgery consistently. The ineffectiveness of current treatments for POCD is causing a search for non-invasive alternatives. The present review aims to consolidate the current understanding of how VR methods effectively facilitate the recovery of cognitive functioning in cardiac surgery patients. To obtain information about the effects of VR technology on cognitive functions, we investigated the PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science Core Collection databases. Our research has shown that VR systems effectively provide feedback, adapt to individual needs, and provide high-intensity and meaningful exercise to promote cognitive and motor learning. Previous studies have demonstrated that multisensory and multidomain stimulation of cognitive functions is possible through VR technology. Thus, the cognitive rehabilitation of cardiac surgery patients can be significantly enhanced using virtual reality (VR) technologies.