Our Summary

This research paper investigates the occurrence of unintentional mild hypothermia (a drop in body temperature) during colorectal surgery, which can have significant consequences. There’s a belief that laparoscopic surgery (a minimally invasive procedure using small incisions) doesn’t cause hypothermia as much as open surgery does. However, laparoscopic surgery involves filling the abdomen with carbon dioxide, which can cause more evaporation (and hence cooling) than air.

The study looked at adult patients who underwent colorectal surgery between May 2005 and August 2013. They divided the cases into laparoscopic and open procedures, and defined hypothermia as a temperature below 36°C lasting for more than two minutes.

Out of 1547 cases, 67.0% experienced hypothermia. The occurrence of hypothermia was higher in the laparoscopic group compared to the open surgery group (71.23% versus 63.16%). However, when other factors were taken into account, the type of surgery didn’t significantly affect the risk of hypothermia. There were, however, notable differences in the severity of hypothermia.

The study concludes that despite efforts to reduce its occurrence, inadvertent mild hypothermia remains a significant issue in colorectal surgery, regardless of the type of surgery. The authors call for further research to better understand techniques that can reduce its occurrence.

FAQs

  1. Does laparoscopic surgery increase the risk of hypothermia compared to open surgery during colorectal procedures?
  2. What is the definition of hypothermia in the context of this study?
  3. What are the potential consequences of mild hypothermia during colorectal surgery?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about laparoscopic surgery is to discuss the risk of unintentional mild hypothermia with their healthcare team. Patients can ask about strategies to minimize the risk, such as using warming blankets or adjusting the temperature of the operating room. It’s important for patients to be informed and proactive in their care to help reduce the likelihood of experiencing hypothermia during laparoscopic surgery.

Suitable For

Patients undergoing colorectal surgery, whether laparoscopic or open, are typically recommended laparoscopic surgery due to its minimally invasive nature and potential benefits such as reduced pain, shorter hospital stay, and faster recovery. However, it is important for healthcare providers to be aware of the risk of unintentional mild hypothermia during laparoscopic surgery and take necessary precautions to prevent it.

Timeline

  • Before laparoscopic surgery: The patient will undergo pre-operative assessments and tests to ensure they are fit for surgery. They will receive instructions on fasting before the procedure and may be given medications to prevent infection or blood clots.

  • Day of surgery: The patient will be prepped for surgery, which may include shaving the surgical site and receiving anesthesia. During laparoscopic surgery, small incisions will be made in the abdomen and a camera and instruments will be inserted to perform the procedure.

  • Post-surgery: The patient will be closely monitored in the recovery room for any complications. They may experience pain, nausea, or discomfort from the carbon dioxide used during the procedure. They will gradually be allowed to eat and drink, and will be given instructions for post-operative care and follow-up appointments.

  • After laparoscopic surgery: The patient may experience some discomfort at the incision sites, but overall recovery is typically faster compared to open surgery. They will be advised to gradually return to normal activities and may need to follow a specific diet or exercise regimen. Follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor the patient’s progress and ensure proper healing.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What is the risk of experiencing unintentional mild hypothermia during laparoscopic surgery compared to open surgery?
  2. What measures will be taken during the laparoscopic surgery to prevent or minimize the risk of hypothermia?
  3. How will my body temperature be monitored during the procedure?
  4. What are the potential consequences of experiencing hypothermia during surgery?
  5. Are there any specific pre-operative or post-operative instructions I should follow to help prevent hypothermia?
  6. How common is hypothermia in patients undergoing laparoscopic surgery for colorectal procedures?
  7. Are there any alternative techniques or technologies that can help minimize the risk of hypothermia during laparoscopic surgery?
  8. What are the symptoms of hypothermia that I should be aware of after the surgery?
  9. How will the medical team respond if I do experience hypothermia during the procedure?
  10. Are there any additional steps I can take to help maintain my body temperature during and after the laparoscopic surgery?

Reference

Authors: Cumin D, Fogarin J, Mitchell SJ, Windsor JA. Journal: ANZ J Surg. 2022 May;92(5):1125-1131. doi: 10.1111/ans.17493. Epub 2022 Jan 27. PMID: 35088504