Using AI to predict delirium after surgery in older adults

Using EMR Data and AI to Develop a Passive Digital Marker to Predict Postoperative Delirium

Not applicable Interventional Indiana University · NCT06216483

This study is testing if a new digital tool can help predict the risk of confusion after surgery in older adults aged 65 and up who are having major abdominal surgery.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment60 (estimated)
Ages65 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorIndiana University Academic / other
Locations1 site (Indianapolis, Indiana)
Trial IDNCT06216483 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This pilot randomized controlled trial aims to evaluate the effectiveness of a digital marker for predicting the risk of postoperative delirium in patients aged 65 and older undergoing major abdominal surgery. Participants will be recruited from a university-based surgical practice and will be randomized to receive either the digital marker alert or usual care. The study will assess the incidence of delirium and the long-term cognitive outcomes following surgery. Eligible patients must have a planned inpatient stay of at least 24 hours post-surgery.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are English-speaking individuals aged 65 and older scheduled for major abdominal surgery requiring at least one day of inpatient care.

Not a fit: Patients with severe mental illness, cognitive impairment, or those currently experiencing alcohol or drug withdrawal may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly reduce the incidence of postoperative delirium and improve long-term cognitive health in older surgical patients.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promise in using digital markers and AI for predicting postoperative complications, suggesting potential success for this approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

65 years old Planned inpatient major surgery requiring inpatient stay ≥ 1 day

Exclusion Criteria:

* Baseline cognitive impairment or a diagnosis of Alzheimer's Disease/Alzheimer's Disease and Related Dementias (AD/ADRD)
* Alcohol or drug withdrawal
* Prisoner status
* Unable to communicate with research staff due to sensory impairments
* Not fluent in English
* Currently has a personal safety attendant

Where this trial is running

Indianapolis, Indiana

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 Delirium in Old Age
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 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.