Active not recruitingOBSERVATIONAL

Detect CI (Cognitive Impairment) Study

The 'Detect CI Study' is checking how well quick memory and thinking tests work for older patients having non-heart surgery. Researchers want to find easy ways to spot any thinking problems (called cognitive impairment) before surgery, as this can affect recovery. They are comparing two short tests, the Mini-Cog and AD8, against a longer, more detailed test called MoCA. The study also aims to find out how common these thinking problems are in patients joining the study. This information could help doctors better prepare patients for surgery and support them afterwards, leading to better care and understanding of how these issues might affect recovery.

At a glance

Status

Active not recruiting

Sponsor

University Health Network, Toronto

Enrolment target

383

Start

15 Sep 2023

Estimated completion

31 Dec 2024

Cognitive Impairment (CI)

What is this study about?

This study, called the 'Detect CI Study,' is looking into how well two short and simple tests can identify thinking and memory difficulties in older people before they have surgery that isn't on their heart. We know that some older adults might have mild thinking problems that aren't obvious, but these can become more noticeable around the time of surgery.

The main idea is to see if a quick check (taking five minutes or less) like the Mini-Cog or the AD8 questionnaire can accurately identify these difficulties. These short tests will be compared against a more detailed test called the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), which is often used to get a clearer picture of someone's thinking abilities. The study also wants to find out how many older adults having surgery might have these types of thinking or memory problems. This research is important because identifying these issues early could help doctors and patients plan better for surgery and recovery.

Ultimately, this study hopes to find the best quick tests to use in clinics, so doctors can easily check for thinking and memory changes before surgery. This could lead to better support and care for patients, both during their hospital stay and in the months following their operation, improving their overall experience and recovery.

Key takeaways

Researchers are testing quick ways to check memory before non-heart surgery.
The study aims to improve identification of thinking problems in older patients.
Participation involves short tests and questionnaires over three months.
Your medical care will not be affected by taking part.
The information helps future patients get better support.

Who may be eligible?

To be able to take part in this study, you need to be at least 65 years old. You must also be able to understand and agree to participate in English. The surgery you are having must be a planned operation that is not on your heart.

You also need to have had at least eight years of education, and it's important that you can be reached by phone for follow-up questions. You'll also need to be able to write or hold a pen to complete some parts of the study.

However, you won't be able to join if you've already been diagnosed with a memory or thinking problem like dementia, or if you have certain untreated mental health conditions. If you have severe hearing or vision problems that would make it hard to do the tests, or if your surgery is on your brain, you also wouldn't be able to take part.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

Are you 65 years old or older?
Is your scheduled surgery not on your heart?
Can you understand and speak English well enough for tests?
Have you had at least 8 years of schooling?
Have you NOT been diagnosed with dementia or a severe memory problem before?
Are you able to be contacted by phone?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you decide to take part in this study, you'll have four main contacts with the research team. First, sometime within a month before your surgery, you'll have an appointment in person. During this visit, you'll complete a few quick tests for memory and thinking, along with some questionnaires about your general health, mood, sleep, pain, and quality of life. Some of these might be done online, over the phone, or in person, depending on what's easiest.

After your surgery, while you're still in the hospital, the nurses or doctors will be looking at how you are recovering and if you experience any confusion. Then, at about 30 days and 90 days after your surgery, the research team will check your medical records to see how you are doing, including if you've had any complications or needed to return to hospital. They will also look at how you are feeling generally during these follow-up periods. There are no medications involved in this study.

Potential risks and benefits

Taking part in this study could help us learn more about how to best support older patients having surgery. While there's no direct medical benefit to you from being tested, the information gathered will help improve care for future patients. The main 'risk' is simply the time it takes to complete the tests and questionnaires. Everything you share will be kept private. You are free to withdraw from the study at any time without giving a reason, and this will not affect your medical care.

Locations (2)

399 Bathurst St., Toronto Western Hospital, Dept. of Anesthesia
Verified postcode
Toronto, Canada
Mount Sinai Hospital
Verified postcode
Toronto, Canada

Common questions

What is 'cognitive impairment'?

It's a way of saying that someone might have some difficulties with their memory, thinking speed, or ability to focus and solve problems.

Why is this study important for older people having surgery?

Sometimes, surgery and being in hospital can make existing mild thinking problems more noticeable. This study helps find better ways to spot these issues early so patients can get the right support.

Will taking part in this study affect my surgery?

No, taking part in the study will not change how your surgery is planned or carried out. It's an extra step to gather information for research purposes.

What are the quick tests like?

The quick tests are very short, usually taking 5 minutes or less. They might involve remembering a few words, drawing a clock, or answering some simple questions about your daily life.

Is my personal information kept private?

Yes, all your personal information and results from the tests will be kept strictly confidential and private, used only for research.