Abstract. Background. Postoperative delirium (POD) is an acute disturbance of consciousness and cognitive functions that is not uncommon among patients following neurosurgical procedures. This condition is characterized by fluctuating levels of attention, disorientation, agitation or lethargy, and can significantly affect recovery and the long-term outcome of surgical treatment. Aim. In the present study, we investigate the epidemiological and risk factors associated with the occurrence of postoperative delirium in the Department of Neurosurgery at Helios Hospital Plauen, Germany, as well as the outcomes of specific preventive measures for reducing the incidence of POD. Materials and methods. This research is a retrospective descriptive analysis of patients admitted and treated in the Department of Neurosurgery between January 2019 and December 2024, in whom POD was documented. The diagnosis of POD was based on clinical assessment by the attending medical team. Patient data were recorded using a specially designed questionnaire, and the collected data were categorized, descriptively analyzed, and presented in tabular form. Results. During the study period, a total of 152 patients were diagnosed with POD, representing 4.3% of all operated patients. Among patients who underwent cranial surgery, POD was observed in 56 cases, while in those with spinal surgery, POD was noted in 96 cases. Several risk factors were identified. Discussion. The results of our study regarding the incidence of POD are consistent with those found in the literature. Similar to other conditions, delirium is associated with advanced age, presence of dementia, alcohol dependence, a history of Parkinson’s disease, and immobility. In 2024, the Department of Neurosurgery introduced extremely simple and easily applicable preventive measures to reduce the frequency of POD. As a result, the year 2024 marked the lowest levels of POD among operated patients for the entire study period. Conclusion. Timely diagnosis, appropriate monitoring, and a multidisciplinary approach to prevention and treatment are key to reducing the incidence and severity of POD.

Key words: postoperative delirium, neurosurgery, cognitive impairment, recovery, risk factors, diagnosis

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