Patients over the age of 65 years are at increased risk for developing delirium and cognitive complications in the immediate postoperative period after noncardiac surgeries, resulting in increased morbidity and mortality. Previous small studies have shown beneficial effects of desflurane on postoperative cognitive recovery, which has been explained by the more rapid onset and offset of anesthesia as compared to sevoflurane. However, there are very limited data on the effect of desflurane on postoperative recovery and time until criteria for discharge from post-anesthesia care unit (PACU) are fulfilled in elderly patients undergoing minor-to moderate-risk noncardiac surgery. Therefore, the investigators will test the primary hypothesis that general anesthesia with desflurane significantly reduces the time between discontinuation of volatile anesthetics after the end of surgery and reaching ready for discharge from PACU criteria, which are defined as reaching a modified Aldrete score ≥ 12, as compared to sevoflurane in patients ≥ 65 years of age undergoing minor-to moderate-risk noncardiac surgery.
See this in plain English?
AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.
Modified Aldrete Score
Timeframe: Consecutive measurements until reaching 12 points for a maximum of 90 minutes after surgery and reaching PACU.