Preoperative forced-air warming combined with intraoperative warming versus intraoperative warming alone in the prevention of hypothermia during gynecologic surgery

Hypothermia in the perioperative setting can have serious consequences, including increased risk of infection or adverse cardiac events. Forced-air warming units commonly are used to prevent hypothermia. This study examined the impact of adding preoperative warming (Bair Paws, 3M) to conventional intraoperative forced-air warming modalities. Thirty patients received both preoperative and intraoperative forced-air warming, and 30 patients received intraoperative warming alone. Temperature readings were recorded across 3 time periods: preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, analysis of variance (ANOVA), and repeated-measures ANOVA. Demographics were similar in both groups with respect to age, body mass index, total intravenous fluids, and estimated blood loss. Statistically significant differences in temperature were seen over time (df = 2, P < .001), and for each intervention across all 3 time periods (P = .042). However, no statistically significant differences in temperature were demonstrated between groups over time. ASA status and type of procedure (laparoscopic vs open) also had no impact on results. These results suggest that preoperative warming with the Bair Paws gown offers no benefit over conventional therapy in maintaining normothermia in the perioperative period.