Research Progress of Perioperative Sleep Disorders in Patients Undergoing Surgery

Perioperative sleep disturbances in surgical patients represent a significant yet often overlooked clinical issue that can profoundly impact postoperative recovery and overall outcomes. Perioperative sleep disorders are common complications in surgical patients, with an incidence rate of up to 50%, significantly impacting postoperative recovery and overall health. These disorders manifest as reduced sleep duration, sleep fragmentation, circadian rhythm disturbances, and pain, peaking in severity on the first postoperative day and persisting in some patients for up to 15 days. Sleep disorders not only increase the risk of postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD) but are also closely associated with postoperative fatigue, pain, and dysfunction in the cardiovascular and gastrointestinal systems. The mechanisms involve both physiological and psychological factors, such as surgical stress, inflammatory responses, anxiety, and pain. Assessment tools include the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and polysomnography (PSG). Influencing factors encompass patient age, gender, psychological state, environmental noise and lighting, type of surgery, and anesthetic agents. Prevention and management strategies include psychological interventions, environmental optimization, postoperative analgesia, and pharmacological treatments (e.g., dexmedetomidine, propofol). This comprehensive review delves into the prevalence, underlying mechanisms, risk factors, and potential interventions for sleep disorders during the perioperative period. By synthesizing current evidence, this review underscores the need for heightened awareness and proactive management of perioperative sleep disturbances to enhance patient recovery and surgical outcomes. Future research directions are also discussed, aiming to reducing the risk of POCD and promoting rapid recovery in patients.