JOINT PROJECT WITH the SIAJ Pathway:Destigmatizing Neurodiversity in the Operating Room: Perioperative Outcomes in Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder

This retrospective cohort study aims to evaluate the perioperative management and outcomes of adult patients with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) undergoing anesthesia at our institution. Using data extracted from the Epic electronic health record, we will compare anesthetic techniques, medication utilization, intraoperative events, recovery profiles, and postoperative complications between adults with ASD and matched non-ASD controls. To enhance data interpretation, we will apply machine learning algorithms to identify complex patterns and predictors of perioperative outcomes that may not be evident through traditional statistical approaches.
The overarching goal of this project is to challenge the misconception that adults with ASD represent “difficult” anesthetic cases by providing objective, data-driven insights. By combining conventional analysis with machine learning, we seek to highlight best practices, uncover nuanced risk factors, and identify individualized strategies to improve patient safety and experience. Ultimately, this work will support efforts to destigmatize autistic adults in perioperative settings, inform clinician education, and lay the foundation for prospective studies and targeted interventions.