Empirical evaluation of the validity of near-death experience claims and assessment of neuropsychiatric and motor deficits following cardiac surgery in patients undergoing planned circulatory arrest – study design

Introduction: Near-death experiences (NDEs) have been widely reported across cultures, yet their underlying causes remain debated. This study design focuses on prevalence, phenomenology and psychological impact of NDEs in patients undergoing planned circulatory arrest during cardiac surgery. The study also assesses the neuropsychiatric and cognitive consequences of such procedures using a mixed-methods approach. Materials and Methods: The study uses a convergent parallel mixed-methods design, combining both qualitative and quantitative data collection. Participants will undergo neuropsychiatric and motor tests (MOCA, TNT-A and B) pre- and post-surgery to assess cognitive and motor deficits. In addition, psychometric instruments, including the Greyson NDE Scale, Mysticism Scale, and Purpose in Life Test, will be administered to evaluate the emotional and psychological aspects of experiences. Patients who report NDEs will participate in semi-structured interviews, while medical staff will be surveyed for objective data regarding the surgery. The VR simulation of the NDE experience will be offered to patients who consent, allowing further exploration of cases of out-of-body experiences. Results: The study design aims to determine the prevalence of NDEs following planned circulatory arrest, the correlation between the duration of circulatory arrest and memory freshness, and the psychological impact of these experiences. It is hypothesized that at least 10% of patients will report NDEs, and some will report out-of-body experiences (OBEs). Additionally, it is expected that patients who score higher on the Greyson NDE Scale will show greater scores on mysticism and purpose in life tests. Data will be analysed using correlation tests, t-tests, and thematic analysis of interview responses. Conclusions: This study aims to provide new insights into the prevalence and psychological effects of NDEs in cardiac surgery patients, with potential implications for understanding consciousness and the experience of death. By using a combination of standardized psychometric tools and qualitative interviews, this research will contribute to the scientific understanding of NDEs while ensuring participant safety and data integrity.