RecruitingOBSERVATIONAL

Accompanying Scientific Program for the Quality Contract Prevention of Postoperative Delirium in the Care of Older Patients (WB-QC-POD)

This research wants to understand why some older patients become confused after an operation, a condition called postoperative delirium. Doctors and researchers are looking at different factors that might play a role. They'll study patients already taking part in another related study (QC-POD). They want to see if things like a person's natural body clock (like when they usually sleep and wake), heart rate patterns, or body temperature changes during and after surgery are linked to this confusion. By carefully observing these different aspects, they hope to learn more about what causes postoperative delirium and how to prevent it, making surgery safer and recovery better for older adults.

At a glance

Status

Recruiting

Sponsor

Charite University, Berlin, Germany

Enrolment target

100

Start

22 Jun 2023

Estimated completion

01 Sep 2025

Postoperative Delirium

What is this study about?

This study is designed to help us better understand why some older people experience confusion after surgery. This confusion is known as postoperative delirium. It's a common issue that can make recovery harder for patients and their families. The researchers want to find out what might increase a person's risk of developing this confusion, so they can work towards preventing it in the future.

The research focuses on several factors. For example, they'll be looking at a person's natural body clock, often called their 'chronotype,' which influences when someone feels sleepy or awake. They'll also monitor sleep patterns, changes in heart rate, and body temperature during and after operations. These different pieces of information will help them see if there are any links between these factors and the development of confusion.

By gathering and analysing all this data, the aim is to get a clearer picture of what causes postoperative delirium. This deeper understanding is really important because it could lead to better ways to identify patients at risk and develop new strategies to keep older people clear-headed and recovering well after surgery. This study is building on information from a group of patients already participating in another related study called QC-POD.

Key takeaways

This study looks at confusion after surgery in older adults (postoperative delirium).
It aims to find out what might cause this confusion, like sleep patterns and heart rate.
The goal is to help prevent postoperative delirium in the future.
Participation involves sharing information from your surgery and recovery; no new treatments.
You must be aged 70 or over and already part of the QC-POD study to be eligible.

Who may be eligible?

This study is looking for older adults who are already part of another study called QC-POD. To be included, you need to be 70 years old or older. Both men and women can take part. You also need to be having surgery, whether it's planned in advance or an emergency operation.

Before you join, you or a legal representative would need to give your permission in writing. This means you fully understand what the study involves and agree to take part. It's important that you understand the information provided.

However, there are some reasons why you might not be able to join. For example, if you are very unwell with a life-limiting illness, if you don't speak German (as the study is based in Germany), or if you have certain heart conditions like an irregular heartbeat or a pacemaker. People who have had a heart transplant or have a certain type of sinus inflammation also can't 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 70 years old or older?
Are you already participating in the QC-POD study?
Are you having surgery (planned or emergency)?
Do you (or a legal representative) understand and agree to give permission to take part?
Do you NOT have serious heart conditions like an irregular heartbeat or a pacemaker?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

The information for this study will come from patients who are already taking part in a linked study (QC-POD). This means you would have already agreed to participate in that main study. The researchers will be collecting additional details and measurements from you during your surgery and recovery period. This might include monitoring your heart rate, sleep patterns, and body temperature at different times. The exact number of visits, assessments, and the overall duration would be linked to your existing participation in the QC-POD study and your surgery schedule. You would not be given any new medications specifically for this research.

Potential risks and benefits

Taking part in this study could help scientists better understand postoperative delirium, potentially leading to improved care for older patients undergoing surgery in the future. There are no new medications or procedures involved solely for this research, so direct physical risks are expected to be very low. The main 'risk' might be the time required for additional monitoring and data collection. Remember, your participation is completely voluntary, and you are free to withdraw from the study at any time without affecting your medical care.

Locations (1)

Department of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Campus Virchow-Klinikum (CVK) and Campus Charite Mitte (CCM), Charite - Universitätsmedizin Berlin
Verified postcode
Berlin, Germany· Recruiting

Common questions

What is postoperative delirium?

It's when an older person experiences new confusion, disorientation, or changes in their awareness after having surgery.

Why is this study only for older adults?

Older adults are more likely to experience postoperative delirium, so the study focuses on this age group to understand how to prevent it.

Will I have to take any new medicines?

No, this study does not involve giving you any new medications or treatments. It's about observing and collecting information.

What is a 'chronotype'?

Your chronotype is your body's natural tendency to be a 'morning person' or an 'evening person' – when you naturally feel sleepy or awake.

How will my privacy be protected?

The researchers will handle all your information carefully to protect your privacy, usually by using coded data so your name isn't directly linked.

How to find out more

Claudia Spies, MD, Prof.

claudia.spies@charite.de +49 30 450 55 11 02 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.