The Elderly Are at Increased Risk of Memory Problems Following Surgery
A recent study published in the journal Anesthesiology indicates that men and women age 60 and older who undergo elective surgery have a lasting risk of long-term memory problems. Among the surgeries mentioned in the Reuters Health report of the findings are hip replacements and hysterectomies.
Said the researchers in a prepared statement, "It is not clear why some patients suffer these problems, but it may be that surgery and anesthesia cause swelling in the brain that can affect the patient’s ability to learn, retain or remember information."
Would this risk turn you off on elective surgery if you’re over 60? What about younger folks? Are you concerned about the risk of memory problems from surgery, or does your age make you feel safe enough to go for it? Leave a comment.
Tags: womens health, woman, health, memory loss, memory trouble, Terri Monk, Duke University Medical Center, elective surgery
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POSTED IN: Aging, Illness, Injury, Medicine, Mental health, New research, Prevention, Wellness
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2 opinions for The Elderly Are at Increased Risk of Memory Problems Following Surgery
Elizabeth
Jan 3, 2008 at 6:21 pm
Heck, I feel like I’ve lost 10 IQ points every time I’ve had anesthesia (or a kid), I can’t imagine it getting worse.
But, no, it wouldn’t deter me from a surgery at a later age, I don’t think.
Kristen King
Jan 3, 2008 at 10:14 pm
LOL, I know what you mean. I thought it was interesting that they referred to a hip replacement as elective surgery. I do understand that you don’t HAVE to replace a hip, so it certainly meets the definition, but I feel like that’s kind of an important one, you know? How do you choose between definite mobility and possible memory issues?
kk
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