STimulation Electronically of Acupoints for Postoperative Delirium in elderlY Patients

Effect of Transcutaneous Electrical Acupoint Stimulation on Postoperative Delirium and EEG Characteristic Parameters in Elderly Patients Undergoing Abdominal Surgery Under General Anesthesia

Transcutaneous electrical acupoint stimulation (TEAS) was reported to benefit the patients undergoing surgeries by reducing anesthetics consumption and decreasing anesthesia related adverse effects. Electroencephalogram (EEG) and EEG-related indicators are important indicators reflecting the conscious state of the brain, and different anesthetic drugs and anesthesia depths cause different EEG characteristic changes. The mechanism by which TEAS improves postoperative delirium (POD) is not clear, and whether changes in EEG characteristic parameters is involved needs to be further explored. Therefore, this study aims to observe the effect of TEAS at Neiguan and Shenmen acupoint on POD in elderly patients undergoing abdominal surgery, and to explore the EEG related mechanism underlying TEAS improving POD.

Inclusion Criteria:

1. aged 65 years or older
2. American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) classification≤ Grade III
3. Patients scheduled for elective abdominal surgery under general anesthesia
4. Informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Patients with severe central nervous system injury or severe cerebrovascular disease
2. Patients with cognitive dysfunction assessed by Confusion Assessment Method before surgery
3. Patients unable to cooperate with studies, such as psychiatric disorders or difficulty in communication
4. Patients with severe hepatic and renal insufficiency
5. Patients with severe respiratory diseases
6. Patients with contraindication for transcutaneous electrical stimulation, such as implanted electrophysiological devices, skin infection and damage at acupuncture points
7. Anticipated duration of anesthesia shorter than 2 hours or postoperative hospital stay shorter than 3 days