Abstract:
Survival rates from critical illness have increased dramatically over the past several decades. This has led to an entire new generation of ICU survivors that we are just getting to understand. The majority of patients who survive an ICU stay have long-lasting symptoms, collectively known as Post-Intensive Care Syndrome (PICS). PICS is characterized by poor memory and concentration, exercise intolerance, as well as new or worsening mental health conditions. Our team studies the association between oxygen delivery to the brain and delirium. Delirium is a state of acute neurological dysfunction, which is the most consistent risk factor for long-term cognitive impairment. Our early data would suggest that both poor cerebral oxygenation and impaired cerebral autoregulation (the ability to maintain consistent blood flow to the brain despite fluctuations in blood pressure) contribute to delirium. The overall goal of our program of research is to learn how to optimize the care of patients during their critical illness in order to improve their long-term recovery.
Bio: Gord Boyd is a neurologist and critical care physician at Queen’s University/Kingston Health Sciences Centre. As a clinician-scientist, he studies the association between brain perfusion and acute- and long-term neurological consequences of critical illness. He is also a Regional Medical Lead for Ontario Health-Trillium Gift of Life Network. When he’s not on call for stroke, ICU or organ donation, he loves to play squash and the drums.