Impact of Cardiac Surgery on Memory Loss

Study Overview

Researchers conducted a study comparing memory loss in heart disease patients who underwent cardiac surgery with those who received cardiac catheterization. The relationship between cardiac surgery and cognitive decline has been a topic of discussion for years, with media often linking the two. While post-operative cognitive decline, which includes memory and thinking skills impairment, is recognized, the direct impact of heart surgery on cognitive function remains unclear.

Potential Causes of Cognitive Decline

Experts suggest that memory loss and cognitive issues may result from various factors, including tissue trauma, opioid pain medications, and sleep disturbances, rather than the surgery itself.

Research Methodology

A team of U.S. researchers aimed to assess whether cardiac surgery significantly contributes to memory decline. Their findings were published in The Annals of Thoracic Surgery. Utilizing a national database from the Health and Retirement Study, the researchers accessed medical information from volunteers who participated in the study. Every two years, these participants answer questionnaires regarding their health, finances, quality of life, and cognitive abilities.

Comparison of Cardiac Procedures

From the database, the researchers identified patients who had either undergone cardiac surgery or a less invasive procedure, cardiac catheterization, for heart disease. By comparing outcomes from both groups, they sought to determine if surgical intervention was linked to memory loss.

Study Findings

The analysis included responses from 3,105 patients, revealing no significant difference in memory loss between those who had surgery and those who had catheterization. The researchers noted that their results align with previous studies.

Conclusion and Recommendations

The researchers concluded that patients advised to undergo cardiac surgery should not hesitate due to concerns about memory loss. The evidence suggests that the surgery itself does not exacerbate cognitive decline.

Reference

Whitlock E, Diaz-Ramirez L, Smith A, Boscardin W, Avidan M, Glymour M. Cognitive Change After Cardiac Surgery Versus Cardiac Catheterization: A Population-Based Study. Ann Thorac Surg. 2018. doi:10.1016/j.athoracsur.2018.10.021
Eurekalert! The Global Source for Science News. https://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2018-12/e-bhn121818.php Last accessed: January 4, 2019.
Written by Nicola Cribb, VetMB DVSc Dip.ACVS.