Reflective Blankets vs. Electric Warming in Preventing Hypothermia During Liposuction: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

Abstract

Background: Perioperative hypothermia is common during liposuction and can lead to delayed recovery, shivering and patient discomfort. While electric warming systems are effective, their use may be limited in certain settings.

Objectives: To evaluate the effectiveness of reflective blankets in maintaining core temperature during liposuction, compared with electric warming and no warming.

Methods: In this randomized controlled trial, 90 patients undergoing elective liposuction under general anesthesia were assigned to three groups (n=30): Reflective Blanket (RB), Electric Warming (EW), and Control (no warming). Core temperature was measured via esophageal probe. Secondary outcomes included awakening time, postoperative thermal comfort (VAS), shivering incidence and thermal imaging.

Results: Baseline characteristics were similar across groups. Final intraoperative temperatures were higher in RB (36.37 ± 0.21°C) and EW (36.40 ± 0.17°C) groups than in Control (36.29 ± 0.17°C; p<0.05). EW provided earlier thermal protection; RB showed significant effects by 90 minutes. Shivering occurred in 76.7% of Control patients, versus 20.0% (RB) and 13.3% (EW) (p<0.001). Awakening time was shorter in RB (4.88 min) and EW (4.57 min) than in Control (7.72 min; p<0.001). Thermal imaging confirmed better heat retention with RB and EW.

Conclusions: Reflective blankets are effective in maintaining normothermia during liposuction and improving recovery outcomes. Their low cost, ease of use and energy-free operation make them a practical alternative to electric warming, especially in resource-limited settings.