Postoperative delirium in elderly patients.

OVERVIEW: Nearly 40% of all surgeries in the United States are performed on adults ages 65 and older. One of the most common surgical complications in this population is postoperative delirium, which is associated with extended lengths of stay, higher patient care costs, increased morbidity, and greater risk of death. This review evaluates risk factors for postoperative delirium in elderly patients, discusses screening and assessment instruments, and examines intervention strategies.