How common is delirium after major surgery?

Postoperative delirium occurs in 10–50% of high-risk surgical patients, particularly following cardiac surgery (up to 50%), hip fracture repair (35–65%), and major abdominal procedures. It is associated with prolonged hospital stay, increased mortality, and long-term cognitive decline.

What non-pharmacological measures prevent postoperative delirium?

ABCDEF bundle: Assess/manage pain (A), Both SAT and SBT (B), Choice of analgesia/sedation (C), Delirium monitoring (D), Early mobility (E), Family engagement (F). Reorientation, minimizing sedation, early mobilization, and optimizing sleep are key preventive strategies.

Postoperative Delirium CAM-ICU Criteria

Confusion Assessment Method for the ICU (CAM-ICU) diagnoses delirium in intubated/non-verbal patients using 4 features: (1) Acute onset or fluctuating course; (2) Inattention; (3) Altered level of consciousness (RASS ≠ 0); (4) Disorganized thinking. Positive if features 1+2+3 OR 1+2+4.

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Postoperative Delirium CAM-ICU Criteria

Frequently Asked Questions

How common is delirium after major surgery?

What non-pharmacological measures prevent postoperative delirium?