P.054 The use of robotic technology to define post-operative neurological dysfunction in patients undergoing coronary bypass surgery: a feasibility study

Abstract

Background: Cognitive dysfunction following coronary artery bypass surgery is a regular occurrence, but its cause is still unknown. In order to devise strategies to mitigate this acquired disability, a precise and quantitative description of the post-operative neurocognitive phenotype is necessary. This study is designed to assess the feasibility of using the KINARM robot to quantify the changes in the neurological function after cardaic surgery. Methods: Patients without prior history of cognitive dysfunction were recruited from the pre-operative cardiac surgery clinic, and underwent pre-operative assessment with the KINARM. The KINARM provides a quantitative assessment of the neurocognitive control of the upper limbs. During bypass surgery, brain tissue oxygen levels were measured with near-infrared spectroscopy. Patients were reassessed with the KINARM post-operatively at 3 months. Results: To date, 12 participants have been recruited (mean age = 65 years, all male). On straightforward tasks, such as visually guided reaching, the majority of patients scored within the normal range, both pre- and post-operatively. In more complex tasks, required visuospatial and executive functioning, post-operative deficits were more pronounced. Conclusions: It is feasible to use the KINARM robot to provide a quantitative measurement of the neurocognitive phenotype of patients after cardiac surgery.