Comparison of cognitive function and quality of life after endovascular or conventional aortic aneurysm repair

INTRODUCTION: The long-term effects of endovascular aortic aneurysm repair on cognitive function and quality of life are not known. METHODS: The cognitive function and quality of life of 82 patients undergoing aortic aneurysm repair (34 endovascular and 48 conventional procedures) were assessed before and 6 months after operation. Cognitive function was quantified using a battery of psychometric tests. Quality of life was assessed with the Medical Outcomes Short Form 36 (SF-36) questionnaire. RESULTS: Data at 6 months were available for 78 per cent of patients. As a group the patients showed a significant decline on one cognitive function test (visual search) and on two domains of the SF-36 (physical function and vitality) when they were reassessed. There were no significant differences between patients undergoing endovascular or conventional aneurysm repair after 6 months in cognitive function or quality of life. CONCLUSION: Endovascular aneurysm surgery had a similar impact on health-related quality of life and cognitive function compared with conventional aneurysm repair. Patients in both groups demonstrated a significant decline in cognitive function.