Predicting Delirium Risk After Heart Surgery Using a New Cognitive Tool

Development of a Prediction Model for Delirium After Cardiac Surgery Using a Novel Self-Administered Preoperative Cognitive Assessment Tool

Observational University Hospital, Basel, Switzerland · NCT03360838

This study is testing a new app to see if it can help doctors predict which older patients are at risk of developing confusion after heart surgery.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment475 (estimated)
Ages60 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorUniversity Hospital, Basel, Switzerland Academic / other
Locations1 site (Basel)
Trial IDNCT03360838 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational cohort study aims to validate the CogCheck application as a tool for predicting the risk of postoperative delirium in elderly patients undergoing cardiac surgery. The study focuses on identifying high-risk individuals by assessing cognitive performance prior to surgery, as pre-existing cognitive impairment is a significant risk factor for postoperative cognitive decline. By utilizing a self-administered tablet program, the study seeks to improve the detection of cognitive issues that are often overlooked in clinical settings. The ultimate goal is to enhance preventive strategies for delirium and cognitive dysfunction in this vulnerable population.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are elderly patients aged 60 years and older who are scheduled for elective cardiac surgery and can communicate in German.

Not a fit: Patients undergoing emergency surgery or those with medical instability that limits preoperative assessment may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to better identification of patients at risk for postoperative delirium, allowing for targeted preventive measures.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown that cognitive assessments can help identify at-risk patients, but this specific approach using the CogCheck tool is novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Elective cardiac surgery
* Age ≥60 years
* Good knowledge of the German language
* Written informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

* Emergency surgery
* Medical instability limiting preoperative assessment
* Surgical procedures without the use of cardiopulmonary bypass
* Procedures involving deep hypothermic circulatory arrest
* Concurrent carotid surgical procedures
* Participation in an interventional trial with POD or POCD as primary endpoint

Where this trial is running

Basel

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Postoperative DeliriumPostoperative Cognitive DysfunctionCognitive DeclineCognitive ImpairmentCognition DisordersCardiac Surgery
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.