Surgery and Vitamin C levels and Cognition

We are investigating the effects of Anaesthesia on Vitamin C, Vitamin B12 levels and Cognition.

NIIM is conducting a clinical trial on the effect of anaesthesia on cognitive function. This study aims to investigate the correlation between vitamin C and B12 levels and cognitive function in surgery patients.

Low levels of vitamin C and B12 in the blood have been linked with impaired cognitive functioning. Post-surgical cognitive impairments are extremely common, possibly explained by a reduction in plasma vitamin C and vitamin B12 concentrations after anaesthesia.

Aim of the Study

In this study we want to find out:

  • The relationship between vitamin C and vitamin B12 concentrations and cognition post-surgery.
  • The effects of anaesthesia on vitamin C and vitamin B12 plasma concentrations post-surgery.
  • A possible way of reducing post-operative cognitive decline.

Methodology

Blood tests and cognitive testing will be undertaken 1-2 weeks prior and post to surgery. Participants will be required to fast for 8-12 hours prior to testing. All testing will take about 90 minutes.

  1. The blood test will measure plasma vitamin C and vitamin B12 levels.
  2. Cognitive testing will involve paper and pen and computer tests:
    • Symbol Digit Modalities Test (SDMT)
    • Hopkins Verbal Learning Test-Revised (HVLT-R)
    • Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE)
    • Swinburne University Computerised Cognitive Assessment Battery (SUCCAB consisting of eight computer-based tasks)

Inclusion criteria:

You’ll be eligible, if you are:

  • Planning to undergo surgery
  • Must not be taking antidepressants, antipsychotics, anxiolytics, illicit drugs or any cognitive enhancing drugs.
  • Have good comprehension of written and spoken English

What will I need to do?

Participants will be required to come to NIIM in Hawthorn for cognitive testing and a blood test 1-2 weeks prior and 1-2 weeks post surgery to their scheduled surgery. Testing will take about 90 minutes.

Privacy and confidentiality

Your personal data will be known only to the study team. All data collected will be de-identified before analysis and stored securely in locked files at the NIIM clinic. No personal data will be divulged in publication.

Can I access test results?

After the study when all data has been collected and analysed, you can receive a summary of the de-identified study results.

Who should I contact if I have any questions about the study?

NIIM Research Department

Phone: 03 9804 0646
Email: [email protected]

What to Expect: Your First Consultation With a NIIM Integrative General Practitioner

What to Expect: Your First Consultation With a NIIM Integrative General Practitioner

An initial consultation with one of our Integrative General Practitioners at NIIM is usually 45 to 60 minutes. These longer consultations are important to thoroughly identify and address the underlying causes of your health issues and start to implement a management plan.

Read More
Psoriasis – A Common Autoimmune Skin Condition

Psoriasis – A Common Autoimmune Skin Condition

2-4% of the population have psoriasis which is a chronic activation of the immune system. This condition is characterized by red well-demarcated patches on the skin with silvery surface scales. The rash is usually symmetrical and frequently occurs on the elbows, knees and scalp, although it can occur anywhere on the body. The fingernails can show pitting or small dints. Psoriasis often runs in families and up to 30% of people with psoriasis develop psoriatic arthritis over time.

Read More

More Research We're Conducting

Past Studies Modality

The International ALLIANCE COVID-19 Treatment Study

The outpatient arm of the International ALLIANCE COVID-19 Treatment Study is now closed. Thank you for your interest.

Past Studies Modality

The GUT Relife Study

Ried K et al. Herbal formula improves upper and lower gastrointestinal symptoms and gut health in Australian adults with digestive disorders.

Ongoing Studies

The Gluco-Metabolism Study

12-week randomised placebo-controlled trial investigating the tolerability and effectiveness of the Nutrition Care Gluco-Metabolism herbal Formula on blood glucose levels.