Developing a digital tool to predict delirium after surgery

Using Routine Care Electronic Medical Record Data and Artificial Intelligence to Develop a Passive Digital Marker to Predict Postoperative Delirium

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · INDIANA UNIVERSITY INDIANAPOLIS · NIH-10896394

This study is looking to help older adults who are having major surgery by using smart technology to predict if they might experience confusion afterward, so we can take better care of them and help keep their minds healthy.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorINDIANA UNIVERSITY INDIANAPOLIS (nih funded)
Locations1 site (INDIANAPOLIS, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10896394 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research aims to improve the care of older patients undergoing major surgery by predicting the risk of postoperative delirium, a common and serious complication. The project will utilize electronic health record data from over 35,000 patients, merging it with advanced artificial intelligence techniques to create a digital marker that can identify those at risk. This marker will be tested in a pilot clinical trial to evaluate its effectiveness in improving cognitive outcomes after surgery. The goal is to enhance brain health and reduce complications for older adults.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults who are scheduled to undergo major elective surgery.

Not a fit: Patients who are not undergoing major surgery or who are younger than the typical age range for this study may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better prevention strategies for postoperative delirium, improving recovery and cognitive health for older surgical patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using electronic health records and machine learning to predict various health outcomes, suggesting that this approach could be effective.

Where this research is happening

INDIANAPOLIS, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Alzheimer disease dementia, Alzheimer syndrome, Alzheimer's Disease, Alzheimer's disease model

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.