Correlation Between Neurocognitive Function Changes and Cerebral Oximetry in Thoracic Surgery Patients

Background: Postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD) is a significant complication following thoracic surgery. One-lung ventilation (OLV) during these procedures can lead to cerebral desaturation, potentially contributing to POCD. This study investigated the correlation between intraoperative cerebral oximetry, measured by near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS), and neurocognitive function changes in patients undergoing thoracic surgery. Methods: In this prospective, observational pilot study, 54 adult patients undergoing OLV for thoracic surgery were enrolled. Cerebral oxygen saturation (rScO2) was monitored continuously using NIRS. Patients were categorized into two groups: Group N (normal NIRS values) and Group D (decreased NIRS values, defined as a drop of ≥20% from baseline or an absolute value