Heart Surgeries Trigger Strokes and Seizures

Strokes, seizures, and other neurological complications related to heart surgery account for considerable morbidity and mortality, according to a new study.

Researchers at the Loyola University Health System (Maywood, IL, USA) summarized the results of previously published studies that examined neurologic complications related to cardiac catheterization exams, balloon angioplasties, ablation therapies for heart rhythm disorders, heart bypass surgeries, thoracic aortic surgeries, surgeries for congenital heart disease (CHD), cardiac valve surgeries, heart transplants, surgeries for heart tumors, and procedures to close a patent foramen ovale (PFO).

The researchers found that strokes are the most common neurologic complication after cardiac surgery in adults. Other complications include delirium, central nervous system infections, pituitary gland problems, spinal cord or peripheral nerve injuries, residual effects of anesthesia, and medication toxicity. The researcher's goal was to provide a succinct neuroanatomic and pathophysiologic approach to a wide array of neurologic complications associated with cardiac procedures. The study was reported in the November 2010 issue of Hospital Practice.

"Neurologic complications are always a risk with cardiac surgery, especially in older patients who have other health problems," said lead author José Biller, M.D., chairman of the department of neurology. "Strokes are the most common neurologic complication after cardiac surgery in adults; in children, seizures are the most common neurologic complications. Despite the risks, cardiac surgeries generally are highly beneficial and life saving.”

"Neurologic complications remain an important cause of morbidity, hospitalization time, and mortality following cardiac surgery and interventional cardiac procedures,” added Dr. Biller. "Evaluation of these complications requires an orderly and systematic approach. Prompt identification of these deficits, is key in planning appropriate evaluation and optimal management.”

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