Statins in prevention of postoperative cognitive dysfunction in patients after cardiac surgery

Abstract

On-pump CABG is commonly accompanied by the development of postoperative cognitive dysfunction considerably affecting the prognosis in this group of patients. However, there are no accepted guidelines on diagnostics and prevention of postoperative cognitive dysfunction. Here we review the incidence, mechanisms, and outcomes of postoperative cognitive dysfunction after coronary artery bypass graft surgery and highlight the benefits of statins for its prevention. We further provide evidence from national and international studies assessing the role of statins in the prevention of postoperative cognitive dysfunction.

Keywords

• postoperative cognitive dysfunction
• coronary artery bypass grafting
• statins