Prevention of intraoperative hypothermia in neonates and infants: results of a prospective multicenter observational study with a new forced-air warming system with increased warm air flow

Abstract

Objectives Neonates and infants are at the highest risk of developing perioperative hypothermia. A number of methods to prevent hypothermia during pediatric anesthesia are in use, and despite the fact that conventional forced-air warmers are the most effective devices, they are not always sufficient enough to maintain body temperature. Therefore, recently a new forced-air warming system with an increased warm air flow was introduced to the market. Aim The aim of this study was to evaluate this new forced-air warming system in neonates and infants during pediatric anesthesia. We hypothesized that the new blanket alone is sufficient enough to prevent neonates and infants from intraoperative hypothermia. Methods Neonates and infants (body weight <10kg) were enrolled in this prospective multicenter observational study. After admission to the operating room, the children were placed on the new forced-air warming blanket. Body temperature was measured continuously until admission to the recovery room or pediatric intensive care unit (PICU). Results Hundred and nineteen children with a median body weight of 4.1kg (range: 0.79.8) were enrolled and received their intended treatment. Median body temperature at the induction of anesthesia was 36.5 degrees C (range: 35.338.2 degrees C) and increased with the length of the operation up to 37.8 degrees C (37.138.2 degrees C) after 180min. Median body temperature after admission to the recovery room or PICU was 37.2 degrees C (36.038.6 degrees C) and remained significantly above baseline (P<0.05). Conclusions The new forced-air warming system as a sole warming device is effective in preventing perioperative hypothermia during pediatric anesthesia in neonates and infants.