Understanding postoperative delirium in elderly patients after non-cardiac surgery

The Incidence, Risk Factors and Outcome of Postoperative Delirium in Elderly Patients Undergoing Non-cardiac Surgery: a Prospective Observational Study

Observational Sir Ganga Ram Hospital · NCT04707794

This study looks at how common confusion after surgery is in older patients over 65 who are having non-heart surgeries to see what might cause it and how to help prevent it.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment270 (estimated)
Ages65 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorSir Ganga Ram Hospital Academic / other
Locations2 sites (New Delhi, National Capital Territory of Delhi and 1 other locations)
Trial IDNCT04707794 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to assess the incidence of postoperative delirium (POD) in elderly patients aged over 65 undergoing elective non-cardiac surgeries. It will involve 150 patients classified as ASA Physical Status I-III and will utilize the validated 4 A's test for rapid assessment of delirium. The study will explore various predisposing and precipitating factors contributing to POD, with a focus on improving patient outcomes and reducing healthcare costs associated with this complication. The findings could help in identifying at-risk patients and implementing preventive strategies.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are elderly patients over 65 years old undergoing elective non-cardiac surgeries who are in ASA Physical Status I-III.

Not a fit: Patients with severe psychiatric or neurological diseases, recent surgeries, or those unable to provide informed consent may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved management and prevention of postoperative delirium in elderly patients, enhancing their recovery and reducing hospital stays.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have indicated varying success in identifying and managing postoperative delirium, making this approach both relevant and necessary.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Patients of age \>65yrs
* Either sex
* ASA physical status I - III
* Elective non-cardiac surgical procedures under general anesthesia
* Clinical Frailty Score (CFS): 1-8
* Patients requiring at least 24 hours of postoperative inpatient care.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Clinical Frailty Score (CFS) of 9
* Patients diagnosed with dementia, severe psychiatric or neurological diseases
* Recent surgery within past 3-months
* History of recent head injury in the preceding 3 months
* Patients with uncompensated cardiovascular disease, hepato-renal insufficiency and uncontrolled endocrine disease
* Patients on anti-depressant, anti-anxiety, anti-convulsant and anti-parkinsonism medications
* Preoperative haemoglobin \< 8 gm % and serum albumin \< 3.5mg/dl
* Patient inability to give informed consent
* Presence of preoperative delirium as assessed by 4A'S Test (score ≥ 4)

Where this trial is running

New Delhi, National Capital Territory of Delhi and 1 other locations

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 Delirium
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.