Comparing intravenous and inhalational anesthesia in older adults
Optimizing Anesthesia to Prevent Postoperative Cognitive and Functional Decline in Older Adults: A Randomized Controlled Trial
This study is testing whether using intravenous anesthesia instead of inhalational anesthesia can help older adults have better recovery outcomes after non-cardiac surgery.
Quick facts
| Phase | Phase 4 |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 260 (estimated) |
| Ages | 70 Years to 110 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Oregon Health and Science University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Portland, Oregon) |
| Trial ID | NCT06036095 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This clinical trial aims to evaluate the effects of intravenous anesthesia versus inhalational anesthesia on postoperative outcomes in older adults undergoing elective non-cardiac surgery. It is a single-center, randomized, double-blind study that will enroll 260 participants aged 70 and older. The primary focus is to determine whether intravenous anesthesia can reduce the incidence of postoperative delirium and cognitive dysfunction, as well as improve functional status and patient-reported outcomes. Blood biomarkers will also be assessed to understand their relationship with anesthesia type and postoperative cognitive effects.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are men and women aged 70 years and older scheduled for elective, inpatient, non-cardiac surgery lasting at least 120 minutes.
Not a fit: Patients with diagnosed dementia, urgent surgeries, or significant psychiatric or neurological conditions may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved postoperative outcomes and quality of life for older adults undergoing surgery.
How similar studies have performed: Other studies have suggested that intravenous anesthesia may have advantages over inhalational methods, but this specific comparison in the geriatric population is novel.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion criteria: * Men and women ≥ 70 years * Sufficient vision and hearing to complete all tests * Proficient in spoken and written English * Scheduled for elective, inpatient, noncardiac surgery, expected to last at least 120 minutes requiring general anesthesia Exclusion criteria: * Urgent or emergent surgery * Diagnosed dementia (or MoCA\<19) * History of Parkinson's disease, major psychiatric disease (Schizophrenia), or severe traumatic brain injury * Ongoing alcohol or substance abuse (per DSM V criteria) * Allergy to propofol or sevoflurane * Personal or family history of malignant hyperthermia * Planned postoperative intubation * Brain surgery * Surgery requiring TIVA or GAS (i.e. cases involving neuromonitoring) * Surgical procedure requiring general anesthetic occurring within 3 months (before or after) surgical date * Any patient or perioperative factor considered a contraindication to randomization to either experimental group by the surgeon or anesthesiologist.
Where this trial is running
Portland, Oregon
- Oregon Health & Science University — Portland, Oregon, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Katie J. Schenning, MD — Oregon Health and Science University
- Study coordinator: Kimberly N. Chun, BS
- Email: chunk@ohsu.edu
- Phone: 503-494-7437
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.