Understanding how surgery affects brain function in at-risk patients
Official title: Mechanisms Mediating Postoperative Neurocognitive Disorders
Funded at Massachusetts General Hospital · NIH-10692867 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how surgery might affect thinking and memory in patients who are more likely to have problems afterward, like those with sleep apnea, and it aims to find ways to help these patients feel better after their operations.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | September 20, 2019 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $196,560 |
| NIH project number | 5K23GM132795-06 |
| Project ID | NIH-10692867 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include patients with obstructive sleep apnea or other conditions that may predispose them to postoperative cognitive issues.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not undergoing surgery or do not have risk factors for postoperative cognitive disorders may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms behind Postoperative Neurocognitive Disorders (PNCD), particularly in patients who are at higher risk, such as those with obstructive sleep apnea. The project involves advanced brain imaging techniques and cognitive assessments to better understand how surgery may impact cognitive function. Dr. Vacas, the principal investigator, is receiving training and mentorship to develop her skills in clinical science and data analysis, which will enhance the quality of the research. The goal is to identify factors that contribute to cognitive decline after surgery, ultimately aiming to improve patient outcomes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better strategies for preventing cognitive decline in patients undergoing surgery.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding cognitive impairment related to surgery, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Massachusetts General Hospital
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Vacas, Susana — Massachusetts General Hospital
- Study coordinator: Vacas, Susana
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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Biomarkers and Causes of Post-Surgery Brain Changes in Older Adults
A study in adults 65 and older will look at blood biomarkers and gut microbes to understand why some people have cognitive changes after surgery.
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Personalized anesthesia monitoring to prevent post-op cognitive problems in older adults
A new approach combines an FDA-cleared brain-monitoring device with a quick in-hospital cognitive check to tailor anesthesia and reduce delirium and memory problems in people 65 and older.
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Circadian rhythms and sleep disorders in perioperative cognitive changes
A study from Massachusetts General Hospital looks at how circadian rhythm problems and sleep disorders may influence brain problems patients experience around surgery.
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Using a quick thinking-and-memory check plus a wireless brain monitor to reduce thinking problems after surgery in older adults
This project pairs a short thinking and memory check with a wireless brain monitor during surgery to help people 65 and older avoid memory and thinking problems afterward.
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PNU-120596 for HIV-related thinking and memory problems
This project tests whether PNU-120596, a drug that boosts a brain receptor, can protect the brain and reduce thinking and memory problems in people living with HIV.
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Ketone-based approaches to improve sleep, anesthesia safety, and memory in older adults
Looks at whether giving the brain ketone fuel can improve sleep, lower anesthesia-related brain problems, and support memory in older adults and people with Alzheimer's.
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.