CODEX Trial: Cognitive outcomes after Dexmedetomidine sedation in cardiac surgery patients

Explore the potential of Dexmedetomidine in preventing Postoperative Cognitive dysfunction (POCD) - A common adverse event after open cardiac surgery.

Two researchers conduct an experiment

About the study

Principal investigator

Dr. Raja Rajamohan

Cardiac Anesthesiologist

Area(s) of medical focus

Brain & Nervous System

Surgical

Mental Health

Condition(s)

Cardiopulmonary disease

Coronary artery disease

Cardiomyopathy

Heart failure

Heart valve disorders

Period of enrollment

2022-05-02 - 2027-05-02

Participating sites

St. Paul's Hospital

Purpose of trial

Compare whether the use of a sedative called Dexmedetomidine after open cardiac surgery reduces the number of patients that develop POCD at 3 month after the surgery.

Dexmedetomidine has been used in the OR for several years already, and some studies have shown that patients who have been sedated with dexmedetomidine have less neurologic complications such as confusion and delirium after the surgery. 

It is known that some proportion of the patients having open cardiac surgery may develop a condition similar to delirium called Postoperative Cognitive Dysfunction (POCD) (up to 10-60% at 3 months) and for the moment, there are no proven treatments that can reduce the chances of developing this condition. Since we know that this sedative helps preventing delirium, we believe it will also help preventing long-term cognitive issues such as POCD. 

Eligibility

  • Age 60 years or older
  • Scheduled open cardiac surgery
  • Access to computer / email

Contact information

Additional Information

Study Phase

Phase 4/ Post Market