Effect of preoperative, high-dose glucocorticoid on early cognitive function after abdominal wall reconstruction – A randomized controlled trial

•Preoperative high-dose glucocorticoid is safe after abdominal wall reconstruction.•Effect on cognitive function after open abdominal wall reconstruction is unknown.•33 patients were randomized to 125 mg methylprednisolone preoperative or placebo.•Neuropsychological tests were performed pre- and postoperatively.•No significant differences in cognitive function were found between the groups.