Apolipoprotein E ε4 allele and neurobehavioral status after on-pump coronary artery bypass grafting

Background and Aim: The presence of apolipoprotein E epsilon 4 allele is being considered as a risk factor for cognitive decline after cardiac surgery. We sought the effect of apolipoprotein E epsilon 4 allele on neurobehavioral status after on-pump coronary artery bypass grafting. Methods: Prior to the operation, neurologic examination and neurobehavioral cognitive status test (COGNISTAT) were performed. Both procedures were repeated on the day of discharge and 3 months after surgery. Apolipoprotein E epsilon 4 allele positive and apolipoprotein E epsilon 4 allele negative patients' performance on COGNISTAT were compared. Results: There was no statistically significant demographic and operative data difference between two groups. No neurological impairment was observed on examinations. There was no statistically significant neurocognitive decline difference between two groups' postoperative performances. Conclusions: It seems that apolipoprotein E epsilon 4 allele may not affect neurobehavioral status in the intermediate period after on-pump coronary artery bypass grafting.