Perioperative Cognitive Trajectories Study
The Perioperative Cognitive Trajectories research project has the following goals:​
Assess memory, attention, and thinking before and after surgery using a remote smartphone app
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Look at genetic traits that may be linked to changes in thinking after surgery
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Understand how sleep and physical activity affect these changes
01. Why are we doing this study?
More people are having surgery each year. After surgery, some patients note changes in memory, attention, or thinking. This is fairly common in certain groups. By learning who is most at risk, we can find better ways to prevent and treat these problems.​
02. What will happen during the study?
This research project has 3 components:
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Completion of memory, attention, and thinking tasks using a smartphone app: Participants will complete a total of 4 questionnaires, one before and three after surgery (remote). The approximate duration of each set of tasks is 30 minutes.
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Collection of a blood sample to study genetic traits (optional): In collaboration with the MGB Biobank, we will collect a blood sample during your routine surgical procedures.
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Use of a smart Ring (Oura) on your finger before and for 30 days after surgery (optional): This will allow us to understand how heart rate, sleep patterns, and physical activity affect recovery. No personal details will be collected.​
03. Who can participate?
Adults aged 40 to 89 years with a surgery scheduled at Mass General Brigham (MGH or BWH). ​
04. Who is funding this research?
This study is funded by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the Hellman Foundation.