In Australia in 2023–24, almost 200,000 elective surgeries involving patients aged 65 or older were performed in public hospitals. But older people worry about the safety and outcomes of anaesthesia, as deep anaesthesia may have a lasting impact on brain function. A new study led by Dr Boules at the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital aims to evaluate the role of Density Spectral Array (DSA) in addition to Bispectral (BIS) index in depth of anaesthesia monitoring in patients older than 65 years. Previous literature has demonstrated that BIS can underperforms in older adults. DSA provides more detailed real-time visual data on brain activity, helping anaesthetists tailor drug delivery more accurately. The study seeks to determine if DSA can improve the detection of inadequate anaesthesia, providing more confidence in depth of anaesthesia monitoring to inform better anaesthesia titration. By enhancing monitoring techniques, this research aims to promote safer, more effective anaesthesia practices, especially during Total Intravenous Anaesthesia (TIVA). Results could lead to improved patient safety, shorter hospital stays, and better overall experiences for older Australians undergoing surgery. The findings can inform clinical guidelines, supporting anaesthetists in delivering precise and personalised care for this vulnerable population.
Dr Michael Boules, The Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital; PhD Supervisors: Professor Victoria Eley, Professor Andre van Zundert, Professor Alison Mudge, The Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital, Queensland.
The project was awarded A$20,000 funding through the ANZCA research grants program for 2026.