This prospective, observational study investigates the impact of repeated general anesthesia exposure on neuroinflammatory biomarkers and neurotrophic factors. The study will enroll 160 adult patients (aged 18-65 years) scheduled for elective cholecystectomy surgery, divided into two groups: patients with no previous general anesthesia exposure (n=80) and patients with at least one or more previous general anesthesia exposures (n=80).
Serum levels of Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF), Interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β), and High Mobility Group Box 1 (HMGB1) will be measured using ELISA method at two time points: preoperatively (baseline) and 24 hours postoperatively. Cognitive function will also be assessed at both time points.
The primary objective is to evaluate whether multiple exposures to general anesthesia lead to significant differences in serum BDNF, IL-1β, and HMGB1 levels, reflecting changes in neurotrophic balance and neuroinflammatory response. This study aims to provide insights into the potential biochemical mechanisms underlying anesthesia-related cognitive changes and contribute original clinical data to the current literature on general anesthesia safety and neurobiological effects.