RecruitingObservational

Perioperative complications and autonomic function assessed by the COMPASS-31 tool

We're studying how the body's automatic systems, like heart rate and digestion, work in people having major surgery. As we get older, these systems can sometimes get a bit out of sync, which might lead to complications after an operation. This research uses a short questionnaire (called COMPASS-31) and heart rate monitoring to understand if we can identify these issues before surgery. The aim is to find better ways to predict and reduce surgical risks, ultimately helping surgical patients recover faster and better. Your participation could help improve future patient care, even if you don't directly benefit yourself.

At a glance

Status

Recruiting

Sponsor

Queen Mary University of London

Enrolment target

296

Start

15 Nov 2025

Estimated completion

15 Nov 2027

Autonomic function in people undergoing major noncardiac surgery under general anaesthesia

What is this study about?

When you have a major operation, your body goes through a lot. Your nervous system has a special part that works automatically – you don't even have to think about it! It controls important things like your heart rate, breathing, and digestion. Sometimes, especially as people get older, this automatic control might not work as smoothly as it should. This could potentially make it harder for your body to bounce back after surgery and might even increase the chance of problems, like infections.

This study wants to explore if we can spot these potential issues beforehand. We use a simple questionnaire called COMPASS-31, which asks about different ways your body functions automatically. By understanding how your automatic systems are working before surgery, we hope to find better ways to predict who might be at higher risk of complications. Ultimately, this research aims to improve the care and recovery for everyone having surgery in the future.

The information we gather from this study will help doctors and researchers understand more about how our bodies respond to surgery. This knowledge could lead to new ways of planning and managing operations, ensuring patients have the best possible chance of a smooth recovery. Your contribution would be very valuable in helping us achieve these goals.

Key takeaways

Study for people aged 50+ having major non-heart surgery.
Aims to improve surgical care by understanding body's automatic functions.
Involves a questionnaire, heart rate monitoring, and a small blood sample.
Your operation and care will not change.
No direct benefit for you, but contributes to future patient care.
You can withdraw at any time.

Who may be eligible?

This study is looking for volunteers who are aged 50 or over. You must be planning to have a major operation that doesn't involve your heart, called noncardiac surgery. This surgery needs to be planned in advance, not an emergency, and you're expected to stay in hospital for at least one night afterwards.

There are a few reasons why you might not be able to join. For example, if you're unable to understand or agree to take part, or if you can't fill out questionnaires. Also, if you're very fit and healthy with no other medical conditions (this is a medical rating known as an ASA score of 1), this study might not be suitable for you.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

Are you 50 years old or older?
Are you having a big operation that is NOT on your heart?
Is your surgery planned (not an emergency)?
Are you likely to stay in hospital for at least one night after your operation?
Are you able to fill out questionnaires?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you decide to take part, you won't have any extra clinic visits. Your operation and usual care will happen as planned. We'll ask you to fill out a short questionnaire (COMPASS-31) before your surgery, which takes about 5 to 10 minutes. It has between 12 and 31 questions about how different parts of your body work.

During your hospital stay, from the day of surgery until up to three days afterwards, we'll monitor your heart rate using a small device. We'll also take a small blood sample (about three teaspoons) to check for signs of heart stress. Please note, the results from this blood test won't change your immediate care, as this isn't a standard test. If you agree, any leftover blood might be stored for future related research, but you can say no to this if you prefer. We'll then follow up on your progress for 30 days after your operation.

Potential risks and benefits

You might not directly benefit from taking part in this study, but your contribution will help researchers find better ways to care for surgical patients in the future. There are a few small risks: giving a blood sample might cause a little discomfort, like a minor bruise or slight pain where the needle goes. The heart rate monitor has an adhesive that could gently irritate your skin, leading to temporary redness or itching. These effects are usually mild and don't last long. Remember, you can choose to leave the study at any time, for any reason, without it affecting your care.

Locations (4)

Royal London Hospital
Approximate
London, England
The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust
City only
London, England
Royal Free Hospital
Approximate
London, England
Newham General Hospital
Approximate
London, England

Common questions

What is 'autonomic function'?

It's how your body's automatic systems work, controlling things like your heart rate, digestion, and breathing without you having to think about them.

Will taking part change my operation or recovery?

No, your surgery and usual care will happen exactly as planned. This is an observational study, meaning we're just gathering information.

How long do I need to be involved?

From agreeing to take part, we'll follow your progress until 30 days after your operation. There are no extra clinic visits.

Can I stop participating if I change my mind?

Yes, you are free to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, and it will not affect your medical care.

Will anyone know my personal details from the study?

No, all your information will be kept strictly private and confidential. Your data will be anonymised so you can't be identified.

How to find out more

Priyanthi Dias

p.dias@qmul.ac.uk +44 (0)2035940349 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.