Post-Anesthesia Sleep Disturbances: A Review Article

Abstract

General anesthesia is used in modern surgical practice to achieve low-reactivity consciousness, involving analgesia, hypnosis, amnesia, and immobility. Recently, studies have revealed a complex correlation between general anesthesia and postoperative sleep disturbances. In the days following surgery, patients who have undergone anesthesia may experience an increased level of Rapid Eye Movement (REM) sleep due to the suppression of REM sleep during anesthesia. Postoperative complications, such as delirium, may be caused by these disturbances. In particular, anesthesia can exacerbate sleep disorders among vulnerable populations, including those with preexisting disabilities. Insomnia, somnolence, appetite loss, and social withdrawal can be symptoms of preexisting sleep disorders that can worsen postoperative outcomes. There is still considerable uncertainty surrounding the relationship between general anesthesia and sleep disturbances. This scoping review aims to shed light on the incidence of sleep disturbances following surgical and dental anesthesia procedures and investigate the intricate connection between postoperative sleep and general anesthesia. A pioneering study in the field of anesthesia and perioperative care is embarked upon by exploring this critically important topic.