The acute confusional state known as delirium is one of the most frequently encountered complications postoperatively. Despite its common occurrence, delirium often is unrecognized or misdiagnosed. Failure to prevent and identify delirium accurately has significant medical implications, given the association of delirium with higher postoperative complication rates, delayed functional recovery, and longer lengths of stay. The mortality associated with delirium is high. Several studies have found that patients with delirium have approximately twice the mortality rate as patients without delirium.<sup>3 Cole M.G., Primeau F.J. Prognosis of delirium in elderly hospital patients Can Med Assoc J 1993 ;  149 : 41

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