Sex differences in postoperative delirium and whether family visits help
Official title: Sex-Dependent Risk of Postoperative Delirium and Mediating Effects of Family Visits: A Prospective Observational Study
Run by University of Zurich · NCT07502391 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks to see if a patient’s sex changes the risk of delirium after non-cardiac surgery and whether family visits can help prevent it, especially in adults 65 and older.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Ages | 65 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 471 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University of Zurich Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Zurich) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | May 5, 2026 |
| Main results expected | December 31, 2028 |
| Study ends | December 31, 2028 |
| Registry record updated | June 1, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT07502391 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Candidates are adults 65 years or older undergoing non-cardiac surgery lasting two hours or more, able to consent.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients under 65, those needing postoperative ventilation, or with conditions preventing study assessments may not benefit.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
Postoperative delirium is common in older adults after non-cardiac surgery and is linked to worse outcomes and higher costs. This observational study will examine whether men and women have different risks for delirium after surgery and whether the amount of family visitation mediates that risk. Researchers will collect data on delirium occurrence, sex, and family visit patterns to explore potential links. The goal is to better understand non-drug approaches that might reduce delirium risk in older adults.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If family visits are found to lower delirium risk differently by sex, hospitals could tailor non-pharmacologic strategies to prevent delirium.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies in other settings suggest family visits may reduce delirium, but results by sex and post-surgical settings are not conclusive.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Informed consent as documented by signature; * ≥65 years of age; * Scheduled non-cardiac surgery with expected surgery duration ≥ 2 hours; * Under either general or spinal anesthesia. Exclusion Criteria: * Known drug or alcohol abuse; * Requirement for postoperative ventilation; * Current participation in another study with an investigational drug; * Inability to complete the study assessments.
Where it's running
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Universitätsspital Zürich
Zurich, Switzerland Recruiting
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.