Overview
We have several studies looking at how surgery affects older people
Fractured Neck of Femur
We have taken samples of blood and CSF from patients undergoing surgery for broken hip. At the same time we have also collected EEG data. These samples are being analysed to determine if inflammation occurs in the brain after surgery and if certain metabolites are associated with large rises in cytokines.
Aortic aneurysm repair
We have also taken blood and CSF from patients undergoing surgical repair of aneurysm of the aorta. We are interested to see if inflammation occurs in this group of patients, and if similar metabolite changes can be detected.
Aortic valve replacement
With colleagues at the Hammersmith Hospital we are planning studies to look at changes in the brain that occur during minimally invasive aortic valve surgery (TAVI). We will be looking to see if inflammation and brain changes are reduced by using cerebral protection devices
Cervical spine injury
Many older patients are admitted to major trauma units with broken necks. Together with colleagues in bioengineering we have undertaken studies to see if immobilisation collars which are used instead of operations, cause harm to older patients. This has included using CT scans of the neck in volunteers, and will in the future also carefully examine swallowing with immobilsation collars.