The chance of having memory loss after surgery depends on many factors: How often do patients have memory loss after surgery? Worse still, some patients need to retire early if their memory problems are severe enough. Unfortunately, these patients may suffer long-term memory problems. However, in some patients, memory loss after surgery may not recover. These patients don't suffer any long term memory problems or dementia from their surgery. Fortunately, cognitive dysfunction and memory loss after surgery can sometimes recover. People with cognitive dysfunction can usually live alone and take care of themselves. For example, this could be only minor memory loss after surgery. Unfortunately, people with dementia may not be able to live alone and take care of themselves.Ĭognitive dysfunction is typically less severe than dementia. We typically refer to dementia as a long term disease affecting many brain functions, which can include severe memory loss. Both result in cognitive impairments, such as problems with reasoning, thinking, and remembering. What is cognitive dysfunction? How is it different from dementia?Ĭognitive dysfunction and dementia are similar. This is referred to as ' postoperative cognitive dysfunction,' meaning 'cognitive problems after surgery.'Ĭan you prevent memory loss after surgery? We believe so. Many patients ask me about memory loss after surgery and anesthesia. Unsurprisingly, this combined stress can cause memory problems after surgery. Additionally, anesthesia heavily affects the brain. This can affect your memory, both short-term and long-term. Surgery causes stress and puts you in an unfamiliar environment.

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