Characteristics of Intraoperative Hypothermia and Rewarming Responses in Elderly Patients Undergoing General Anesthesia Across Different Traditional Chinese Medicine Constitutions.
Shujun Han, Weiwei Ou, Dinghua Zheng et al.
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In 30 seconds
This randomized controlled trial investigated intraoperative hypothermia (IH) in 500 elderly patients undergoing general anesthesia, identifying risk factors and evaluating rewarming strategies in 80 patients. IH was found in 36.0% of patients, with specific traditional Chinese medicine constitutions and other factors increasing risk. The use of inflatable warming blankets significantly reduced rewarming time and postoperative shivering incidence (5.0% vs 22.5%).
Key findings
- Intraoperative hypothermia affected 36.0% of elderly patients undergoing general anesthesia.
- Patients with Qi Yang or blood deficiency TCM constitutions had a higher risk of IH.
- Major surgical procedures and low operating room temperatures were associated with increased IH risk.
- Inflatable warming blankets reduced postoperative shivering incidence to 5.0% compared to 22.5% in controls.
Why it matters
Understanding the prevalence and risk factors for intraoperative hypothermia in elderly patients is crucial for improving patient outcomes. Effective rewarming strategies can enhance thermal management and reduce complications associated with hypothermia during surgery.