Background　The postoperative cognitive dysfunction（POCD） induced by propofol has drawn more and more attention recently， but its machanism is still unclear.　Objective　By reviewing the researches on the mechanisms of postoperative cognitive dysfunction caused by propofol， we may provide some references for the prevention and treatment of POCD clinically.　Content　Summerize the investigational advances of POCD caused by propofol anesthesia.　Trend　Propofol is one of the classic intravenous anesthetics. The study of its influence to cognitive function would decrease the morbidity of POCD， and also guide the further clinical practice.