Effects of Sevoflurane vs Desflurane on Early Recovery and Cognitive Function in Elderly Patients Undergoing Scheduled Non-Cardiac Surgery

The goal of this clinical study is to compare the effects of desflurane versus sevoflurane on early postoperative recovery and cognitive function in elderly patients (aged 60 years and older, ASA I-III) undergoing elective non-cardiac surgery under general anesthesia. The main questions this study aims to answer are: Which anesthetic agent allows faster emergence from anesthesia (eye opening, response to commands, extubation)? Does desflurane lead to earlier cognitive recovery as measured by the Short Orientation Memory Concentration Test (SOMCT)? Does the choice of volatile anesthetic influence the time required to achieve a modified Aldrete score (MAS) ≥ 9 and PACU discharge readiness? Researchers compared the desflurane group to the sevoflurane group to determine whether desflurane provides a superior recovery profile and minimizes delayed emergence in elderly surgical patients. Participants will: Be randomly assigned to receive either desflurane or sevoflurane for maintenance of general anesthesia. Undergo standardized induction with fentanyl, propofol, and cisatracurium, along with uniform ventilatory and monitoring protocols. Have emergence parameters recorded immediately after discontinuation of the inhaled agent (eye opening, command following, extubation). Be evaluated in the post-anesthesia care unit using the modified Aldrete Score (MAS) and SOMCT, with predefined thresholds for recovery (MAS ≥ 9, SOMCT ≥ 20). This study aims to determine whether desflurane-due to its lower blood/gas partition coefficient-offers measurable clinical benefits in terms of rapid awakening, cognitive recovery, and overall early postoperative recovery in the geriatric population.