Introduction

The demographics of aging of the surgical population has increased the risk for perioperative neurocognitive disorders in which trauma-induced neuroinflammation plays a pivotal role.

Sources of data

After determining the scope of the review, the authors used PubMed with select phrases encompassing the words in the scope. Both preclinical and clinical reports were considered.

Areas of agreement

Neuroinflammation is a sine qua non for development of perioperative neurocognitive disorders.

Areas of controversy

What is the best method for ameliorating trauma-induced neuroinflammation while preserving inflammation-based wound healing.

Growing points

This review considers how to prepare for and manage the vulnerable elderly surgical patient through the entire spectrum, from preoperative assessment to postoperative period.

Areas timely for developing research

What are the most effective and safest interventions for preventing and/or reversing Perioperative Neurocognitive Disorders.