The CDAC Study - Cerebral Dysfunction After Coronary Revascularization

Neurocognitive decline has long been acknowledged as a potential complication of coronary artery bypass grafting surgery (CABG). The incidence of post-operative cognitive dysfunction (POCD) as measured by objective testing has been reported in several small studies to approach 15-50%, with great variability noted in study size, testing methods, and length of clinical follow-up. However, much controversy exists regarding the prevalence and severity of post-operative cognitive changes following CABG, as well as the methods of assessment. Currently, pre-revascularization discussions between a treating physician and a patient (Informed Consent) are limited to topics of morbidity, mortality, and surgical result, and these discussions do not include the potential risk of POCD. In contrast to CABG, percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), including stent placement, has the potential of providing similar revascularization results without the risk of POCD or a negative impact on personal and professional quality of life. Thus, to determine the true rate of cognitive dysfunction for patients in 2 years following CABG compared to patients undergoing PCI, we propose a multi-center, observational, two-group, non-randomized cohort study. The decision to undergo CABG or PCI will be made by a treating physician and a patient before study enrollment, and thus, the choice of a procedure is not part of the research protocol, and there is no increased risk due to study enrollment. Patients at 30 centers will undergo baseline computer-based customized neurocognitive testing (Cogstate), chosen for its sensitivity to detect cognitive changes in multiple domains. Initial testing will be >48 hours after the qualifying diagnostic coronary angiogram and <2 months before CABG or PCI. The test will be repeated 30 days after hospital discharge and again at 1- and 2-years after revascularization. Diagnostic angiographic images will later be evaluated by three physicians to determine if the patients could have received similar results from CABG or PCI. Due to ethical concerns, randomization to a treatment option is not appropriate. While inferring causality in the absence of a randomized clinical trial design may be challenging, propensity score matching will be employed to enhance the efficiency of measured clinical variables or characteristics. The primary study endpoint is a change of within-patient cumulative computer-based neurocognitive test performance at baseline, with comparison to 2-years after revascularization (in addition to between-group comparisons). Secondary endpoints include test results 30 days and 1-year after discharge compared to baseline, return to work or usual activities interval, and a change in professional status, job title, or personal activities. Thus, the present study for the first time will provide both patient and physician with the information necessary to make an informed treatment decision when faced with the need for coronary revascularization, and the desire to maintain cognitive function, professional productivity and personal quality of life, and may also change the method of cognitive testing and the clinical practice of recommending CABG as a primary revascularization option.