Effect of Dexmedetomidine on Apoptosis and Early Cognitive Dysfunction in Rats Following Propofol Anesthesia.

In conclusion, the combined use of surgical anesthesia with DEX demonstrates a modulatory effect on the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway. This intervention proves effective in reducing hippocampal cell apoptosis post-surgery, thereby alleviating neurological impairments and ameliorating early cognitive dysfunction in rats. Our findings underscore the potential therapeutic impact of DEX in enhancing cognitive outcomes following surgical procedures. The observed reduction in hippocampal cell apoptosis and improvement in cognitive function suggest that DEX may hold promise as a neuroprotective agent in the perioperative setting. These outcomes highlight the clinical relevance of considering DEX as an adjunctive therapy to mitigate cognitive dysfunction associated with surgery. Further investigations and clinical trials are warranted to validate and extend these findings, potentially offering a novel avenue for improving patient outcomes and advancing perioperative care strategies.