Intraoperative temperature management during emergency cesarean section: a retrospective observational study

Area of Science:

• Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Anesthesiology
• Patient Safety

Background:

• Intraoperative hypothermia is a frequent complication during cesarean sections (C-sections).
• It is linked to increased maternal morbidity and mortality.
• Identifying risk factors is crucial for prevention.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the risk factors associated with intraoperative hypothermia in women undergoing emergency C-sections.
• To determine the effectiveness of active warming methods in preventing hypothermia.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective study of 87 women undergoing emergency C-sections.
• Data collected included baseline characteristics, thermal status, and perioperative information.
• Logistic regression analysis identified risk factors for hypothermia (core temperature < 36°C).

Main Results:

• 30 out of 87 patients experienced intraoperative hypothermia.
• A pre-surgery core temperature below 36.5°C (OR 4.22) and longer surgery duration (per 10 min, OR 1.97) were significant risk factors.
• Active warming methods reduced the risk of hypothermia (OR 0.19).

Conclusions:

• Intraoperative hypothermia is prevalent in emergency C-sections.
• Proactive application of active warming is recommended for all patients.
• Particular attention should be given to women with low baseline temperatures (<36.5°C) and those with anticipated long surgical durations.