Stress-induced Perioperative Depressive Symptoms

Sustained stress has been correlated with increases in cortisol levels and decreased levels of brain transmitters including serotonin or dopamine. As a result of better understanding of human pathophysiology and pain physiology, the fields of surgery and anesthesia have seen major advances in the last years.However, a high percentage of patients develop depressive symptoms following major surgery and pathogenic perspective is very complex and require an holistic approach.