ES Nutritional Status and Post-Cardiac Surgery Outcomes: An Updated Review with Emphasis on Cognitive Function
Executive Summary
Anisah Abu Yazit, Suhaini Kadiman, Kamilah Muhammad Hafidz
Norsham Juliana, Nur Adilah Shuhada Abd Aziz, Sofwatul Mokhtarah Maluin, Noor Anisah Abu Yazit, Sahar Azmani, Suhaini Kadiman, Kamilah Muhammad Hafidz, Nur Islami Mohd Fahmi Teng and Srijit Das.
Published: J. Clin. Med. 9 July 2024;13(14):1-15
Background
This article looks at how a person’s nutrition before heart surgery can affect their recovery, especially when it comes to problems with memory and thinking after the procedure, known as post-operative cognitive dysfunction (POCD).
Key Findings:
- Nearly half of the people who go in for heart surgery (about 46.4%) are malnourished, meaning their bodies don’t have the nutrients they need to stay strong and healthy. This poor nutritional status can lead to a harder and slower recovery after surgery, with more complications and longer hospital stays.
- Malnutrition can make the body more vulnerable to inflammation, heart failure, kidney issues, and mental difficulties. One of the most common problems after surgery is POCD, which affects up to 50% of patients. This condition can cause confusion, forgetfulness, and trouble focusing, especially in those who have had coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgeries.
- The good news is that helping patients improve their nutrition before surgery by adjusting their diets or using supplements, could lower inflammation, help them heal faster, and reduce the chances of having these thinking and memory problems afterward.
Conclusion
In simple terms, making sure patients are well-nourished before heart surgery can lead to better outcomes. They’re more likely to recover quickly, avoid complications, and maintain their mental sharpness after surgery. This is why doctors should check for signs of malnutrition before surgery and offer nutritional support as part of the care plan.
