Surgery Option for Neurodivergent Adults patients: Review Article

Soheila Hamidpour; Rafie Hamidpour

doi:10.58372/2835-6276.1439

Authors

Soheila Hamidpour MD
Rafie Hamidpour PHD, DE, DABFE

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.58372/2835-6276.1439

Abstract

Tailoring surgery for neurodivergent patients (such as autism or ADHD) requires individualized care plans, sensory reduction, and customized sedation to prevent trauma and anxiety. Insights from the Science Direct scoping review show that caregiver collaboration and structured planning significantly improve safety.

For adult, their surgical care will focus heavily on autonomy, clear communication, and legal/medical advocacy. While many pediatric hospitals have robust neurodivergent protocols, adult medical systems can be more challenging to navigate.

Here is how to optimize the surgical experience for an adult neurodivergent patient

References

The clinical frameworks, systemic barriers, and ethical dimensions discussed throughout this consultation are grounded in the following medical literature and peer-reviewed studies:

Adapting Perioperative Care for Neurodivergent Children - A Scoping Review Journal of Pediatric Surgery (via ScienceDirect). Evaluates preoperative sedation modulation, innovative mobility adaptations, and data showing that individualized care plans built on caregiver collaboration substantially lower perioperative stress.

Preparation and Preoperative Considerations for Neurodiverse Patients Keywords in Anesthesia via Open Anesthesia). Establishes standard anesthesia protocols for modifying the physical environment, using visual communication schedules, organizing calm clinical entry pathways, and balancing "single voice" induction techniques to prevent sensory overwhelm.

Integrating Tailored Approaches in Perioperative Care Strategies for Neurodivergent Individuals The Lancet / e Clinical Medicine (via PMC and ScienceDirect). Outlines the perioperative pipeline adjustments required for neurodivergent patients, specifically detailing adaptive care plans, fast-track check-ins, intraoperative noise/lighting reductions, and specialized pain assessment scales (like r-FLACC and NCCPC-R).

Surgical Management of the Patient Living with Autism Journal of Surgical Research (via PMC). Highlights systemic challenges including 276 routine disruptions, sensory sensitivities, and communication limits. Recommends operational guidelines like booking the first case of the day, using private rooms, and minimizing post-op irritation by avoiding optional drains and tight physical restraints.

Autism Spectrum Disorder in Primary Care & The SPACE Framework American Family Physician (via AFP). Addresses the adult healthcare cliff and mortality disparities faced by neurodivergent individuals entering adult medical infrastructure. Promotes the clinical utilization of the SPACE framework (Sensory, Predictability, Acceptance, Communication, Empathy) to build affirming medical settings.