Dexmedetomidine improves postoperative cognitive dysfunction: mechanism and progress

Background Postoperative cognitive dysfunction(POCD) is a complication of the central nervous system after surgical anesthesia, and commonly seen in elderly patients over 65 years old. Objective To summarize and analyze the possible mechanisms by which dexmedetomidine (Dex) improves POCD and the clinical uses of Dex. Content This article briefly described the epidemiological materials and pathogenesis of POCD, and analyzed the possible mechanism by which Dex improves POCD in detail. Trend At present, the treatment of POCD is still being explored. Whether Dex can improve POCD needs further research and exploration. Key words: Dexmedetomidine; Postoperative cognitive dysfunction