Postoperative neurocognitive disorder: migration and crosstalk of inflammation in the peripheral and central nervous system

Postoperative neurocognitive disorder (PNCD) causeschallenges in addition to that resulting from surgery. These adverse effects not only impact patients in the short term but can also lead to long-term consequences, including an increased mortality rate, a higher risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease, and a decline in post-surgical quality of life and longevity. To better prevent and treat PNCD and improve the prognosis of surgical patients, it is essential to enhance the understanding of the pathogenesis of PNCD. According to recent studies, peripheral inflammation and neuroinflammation may collectively contribute to the development of PNCD. This article discusses the sources of peripheral inflammation, the migration and crosstalk of inflammation between the periphery and the central nervous system, and whether this crosstalk could provide new insights into preventing and treating PNCD.