Postoperative Cognitive Dysfunction clinical trials at UCSF

Postoperative cognitive decline (POCD) affects up to 50% of non-cardiac surgical patients greater than or equal to 65 years of age. This study will test the hypothesis that preoperative presence of brain beta-amyloid plaques in non-demented subjects increases postoperative cognitive decline (POCD) in elderly subjects scheduled for hip or knee replacement. The investigators hypothesize that preoperative beta-amyloid plaques will predict postoperative cognitive decline.