Isoflurane and deflurane may have different effects on postoperative cognitive function, according to a study published in the Nov. 2011 issue of Anesthesia & Analgesia.
According to the report, the etiology of postoperative cognitive decline remains to be determined. The researchers performed a pilot study to determine the effects of isoflurane and desflurane on cognitive function in humans.
The study subjects included patients who had lower extremity or abdominal surgery under spinal anesthesia alone, spinal plus desflurane anesthesia or spinal plus isoflurane anesthesia. Each of the subjects received cognitive tests immediately before and one week after anesthesia and surgery.
The findings indicated that isoflurane and desflurane may have different effects on postoperative cognitive function. The researchers said more studies are needed to determine the extent of the effects.
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According to the report, the etiology of postoperative cognitive decline remains to be determined. The researchers performed a pilot study to determine the effects of isoflurane and desflurane on cognitive function in humans.
The study subjects included patients who had lower extremity or abdominal surgery under spinal anesthesia alone, spinal plus desflurane anesthesia or spinal plus isoflurane anesthesia. Each of the subjects received cognitive tests immediately before and one week after anesthesia and surgery.
The findings indicated that isoflurane and desflurane may have different effects on postoperative cognitive function. The researchers said more studies are needed to determine the extent of the effects.
Related Articles on Anesthesia:
25 Benchmarks for Anesthesiology Practices
Severe Drug Shortages More Limited Than Previously Thought
Charleston Anesthesiologist Takes First Place for Catheter Design