“What are the potential effects of anesthesia on cognitive function?”

It is possible to have a decline in cognitive function in the days or weeks after having surgery with general anesthesia. Those most likely to experience a decrease in cognitive function are individuals with advanced age, pre-operative conditions such as dementia, history of stroke, and/or cardiac conditions. The risk increases with the length and complexity of the surgery. Whenever possible, regional anesthesia should be considered and the avoidance of heavy doses of midazolam. Overall, general anesthesia is safe and optimizing your personal health in the days and weeks leading up to your surgery will be beneficial.