What Causes Delirium After Surgery?
A number of factors can lead to delirium after surgery. One is the anesthesia itself. Anesthesia can impact the neurotransmitters in the brain, leading to temporary confusion. Surgery also tends to trigger an inflammatory response throughout the body. This can impact the brain and contribute to delirium. Sometimes delirium is caused by a specific medication or the interplay of several different medications prescribed after surgery.
Inadequate pain control may also be to blame. Pain increases stress levels and interferes with sleep, both of which can cause confusion and fogginess. Sensory impairments can also be an issue. When a surgery limits a patient’s ability to see, for example, due to bandages over the eyes, their risk of becoming unsettled or confused increases.
Postoperative infections can also cause delirium, both through inflammation and fever.
How Long Does Delirium After Surgery Last?
Delirium after surgery usually resolves in a few hours to a few days. In some instances, however, the condition can last for several months. Prolonged delirium is more likely to occur in patients who either have a history of postsurgical delirium or are known to have some type of cognitive decline, such as dementia, prior to surgery.
What Types of Surgeries Carry Postoperative Delirium as a Risk?
Cardiac surgeries are one of a few that carry a higher risk of delirium postoperatively. The use of cardiopulmonary bypass during surgery is thought to contribute to this risk. Major orthopedic surgeries like knee and hip replacements also carry some delirium risks. These surgeries are often performed on elderly patients who are at a higher risk for cognitive impairment from other sources.
Major abdominal surgeries and organ transplants also carry a higher risk of delirium. Not surprisingly, so do neurosurgeries. Emergency surgeries do as well given their stressful nature and your lack of time to prepare for them.
How Postoperative Delirium Evaluations Via Telehealth Work
At TMG, we can help you with postoperative delirium during a postoperative evaluation or, if necessary, an urgent care visit. Simply sign up on our website to schedule a telehealth visit with us. Our medical professionals will speak with you and gather some information from you. This will allow us to determine a possible cause for your delirium. We can then assess whether the condition is likely to resolve on its own as postoperative delirium often does or if further medical treatment may be necessary.