Asymmetric cerebral embolic load and postoperative cognitive dysfunction in cardiac surgery.

Background: The aim of the study was to determine the effects of asymmetric cerebral embolic load on cognitive functions.

Methods: Thirty-six open heart surgery (OH) and 26 coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) patients were evaluated by neuropsychological and transcranial Doppler tests.

Results: OH was associated with a significantly larger microembolic load in comparison to CABG.