Predicting perioperative stroke.

The purpose of this review is to examine the incidence and mechanisms of perioperative stroke and to identify possible associated risk factors. The perioperative period can be subdivided into preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative periods; we focus here on assessment in the preoperative period, as this is the time when risk prediction usually occurs. Surgical technique itself will not be considered, nor will intraoperative monitoring to detect cerebral ischemia be considered. This review will examine perioperative stroke in relation to general surgical procedures, including peripheral vascular reconstruction, orthopedic, gynecologic, and head and neck surgery.