Li Tian, M.D., PhD | Shanghai Fourth People’s Hospital Affiliated to Tongji University; Jianqun Gao, PhD; Tifei Yuan, PhD; Qi Liu, PhD; Qi Cheng, PhD; Yue Yang, PhD; Guangfu Wu, PhD
Competition Sponsor: Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences
Awardee Year: 2023
Elderly individuals are particularly vulnerable to the onset of perioperative neurocognitive disorders (PND), predominantly attributed to deteriorations in brain functionality. Despite this, clinical practice lacks standardized methodologies for prevention and intervention. However, a comprehensive, multi-dimensional approach to monitoring brain network functionality can be employed, encompassing robust preventative measures in the preoperative phase, vigilant monitoring and management during the intraoperative period, and swift postoperative interventions with early warning systems.
The symbiotic relationship between neuronal activity and vascular responses is pivotal in preserving brain homeostasis. Neurovascular coupling, a process involving localized cerebral blood flow alterations in response to neuronal activity, is often implicated in various brain injury-related disorders, PND included, due to its impairment. The coupling of functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS), electroencephalography (EEG), and functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) enables the precise, comprehensive, and real-time monitoring of brain activity, effectively addressing the limitations of standalone methods.
In conjunction with the Perioperative Cognitive Assessment System (PNAS) that we have developed and digital therapies such as gaming, music, and art, we have established a precise and accurate framework for the assessment and intervention of perioperative neurocognitive disorders.