Dual forced-air warming improves intra-operative temperature management in lumbar spine surgeries

Abstract

Purpose

The efficacy of dual versus single forced-air warming (FAW) devices in lumbar spine surgeries has not been evaluated. We hypothesized that dual FAW devices can rewarm the patient faster, which results in better intra-operative temperature management.

Methods

Propensity score matching of two cohorts was performed. The FAW1 group received standard anesthetic care with the single FAW device and the FAW2 group used dual FAW devices. The time–temperature integral was calculated to evaluate the temperature exposure. The primary outcomes included intra-operative minimal temperature, final temperature and the integral of the hypothermic and rewarm periods (to 36 °C). The risk factors were analyzed as secondary outcomes.

Results

The FAW1 and FAW2 groups showed similar average lowest temperature. However, the time–temperature integral in the FAW2 group was significantly lower than that in the FAW1 group. The FAW2 group had a faster average rewarming time than the FAW1 group by 51.7 min. The FAW2 group had a higher number of patients achieving normothermia at the end of surgery than the FAW1 group (87.7 % vs. 60 %). Blood loss was associated with hypothermia in the FAW1 group.

Conclusions

Dual FAW devices are beneficial for intra-operative temperature management in lumbar spine surgeries. Further, they can be easily implemented. Patients who used dual FAW devices had a less exposure to mild hypothermia (<35 °C) and a faster rewarming time to >36 °C. Hence, there was a higher proportion of patients with normothermia at the end of surgery.

Clinical trial number

not applicable.