Review on Hypothermia during anesthesia

Abstract

Background: Perioperative hypothermia is a preventable decline in core body temperature (below 36.0°C) during anesthesia. This can lead to adverse outcomes and increased healthcare costs.

Objective: To investigate perioperative hypothermia, its physiological mechanisms, risk factors, and preventative measures during anesthesia.

Methods: We performed a review of literature on thermoregulation, impact of different anesthesia types, risk factors, complications, and management strategies for perioperative hypothermia.

Results: Perioperative hypothermia, defined as a core body temperature below 36.0°C, affects up to 72.5% of surgical patients and leads to adverse outcomes such as increased infection rates, blood loss, and prolonged hospital stays. General and regional anesthesia compromise thermoregulation, with certain anesthetics lowering the vasoconstriction and shivering thresholds. Risk factors include advanced age, low body mass index and the use of unwarmed fluids. Effective preventive measures include active warming devices, such as forced air systems, and prewarming protocols. Core temperature monitoring is essential, with various reliable techniques available, including nasopharyngeal and esophageal measurements.

Conclusion: Perioperative hypothermia is a common, preventable issue that significantly impacts patient outcomes and healthcare costs. Proactive temperature monitoring and the use of warming devices are critical for preventing hypothermia and its associated complications. Implementing best practices in perioperative temperature management can enhance patient safety and reduce healthcare expenses.