Dexmedetomidine for Prevention of Delirium After Hip Fracture Surgery

Postoperative delirium is common after hip fracture surgery and is associated with delayed recovery and serious postoperative complications. Patients with hip fracture are often elderly, acutely admitted, in pain, and have multiple comorbidities, all of which increase the risk of delirium. This study evaluates whether implementation of intraoperative dexmedetomidine prophylaxis reduces postoperative delirium in patients undergoing hip fracture surgery. The study will compare patients treated before and after implementation of dexmedetomidine prophylaxis.

Inclusion Criteria: * Patients at least 65 years of age undergoing surgery for hip fracture in general or spinal anesthesia * Treated during the defined pre- or post-implementation period Exclusion Criteria: * Known hypersensitivity to dexmedetomidine * Second- or third-degree AV block without pacemaker * Acute cerebral conditions with potentially impaired cerebral autoregulation * Acute or chronic liver failure