Remote cognitive testing for surgical patients

Remote Evaluation of Cognitive Function for Older Adults Undergoing Surgery

Observational University of California, San Francisco · NCT05566275

This study tests if remote brain tests on smartphones can help find older adults at risk of cognitive problems before they have spine surgery.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment30 (estimated)
Ages65 Years to 99 Years
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of California, San Francisco Academic / other
Locations1 site (San Francisco, California)
Trial IDNCT05566275 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This pilot study evaluates the effectiveness of remote cognitive assessments in identifying older adults undergoing surgery who may have cognitive vulnerabilities. Participants will complete a series of neuropsychological tests on their smartphones, including the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), prior to their surgery. The goal is to determine if these assessments can help guide cognitive care pathways for patients at risk of delirium post-surgery. The study focuses on patients undergoing spine surgery lasting three hours or more.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are older adults scheduled for spine surgery lasting three hours or more who can participate in remote assessments.

Not a fit: Patients undergoing emergency surgery or those participating in other cognitive studies may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved cognitive care for surgical patients, potentially reducing the incidence of delirium and enhancing recovery outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: While remote cognitive assessments are a growing field, this specific approach in surgical patients is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Spine surgery with a duration greater than or equal to three hours
* Can speak, write, and understand English
* Ability to participate in remote visit

Exclusion Criteria:

* Participating in other cognitive studies
* Having more than one surgery (planned multiday surgery)
* Emergency surgery

Where this trial is running

San Francisco, California

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 Mild Cognitive ImpairmentDeliriumRemote Cognitive Assessment
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 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.