Dynamic Multimodal Delirium Warning After Cardiac Surgery

After heart surgery, up to half of all patients may develop a state of sudden confusion called postoperative delirium. This condition can lead to longer time on a breathing machine, extended stays in the intensive care unit (ICU), and a slower overall recovery. Currently, doctors have no reliable way to predict delirium early enough to take preventive action. This study aims to build a computer-based early warning system. The system will combine continuous, real-time measurements of brain waves (EEG), the oxygen level in the brain, and heart and blood pressure function. It will also include information about each patient's health status. By analyzing all of these signals together, the model is designed to give an alert 1 to 6 hours before delirium might start, giving the care team a window of time to intervene. The study will take place in the ICU at Zhongda Hospital, Southeast University. Adults between 18 and 80 years old who are admitted to the ICU after heart surgery will be invited to participate. All patients will receive the usual standard of care; the study does not test any new treatment. Participation means the investigators will continuously record the brain, oxygen, and heart signals that are already being monitored, and a researcher will regularly assess the patient's thinking and alertness with a simple bedside check.