[The effect of prostaglandin E1 on body temperature, catecholamines and stress hormones during prolonged surgery]

The effects of prostaglandin E1 (PGE1) on body temperature, catecholamines and stress hormones were evaluated in 10 patients undergoing elective prolonged surgery over 12 hours. PGE1 (0.03 microgram.kg-1.min-1) was administered in 5 patients and was not administered in 5 patients. Deep skin-surface temperature gradients were 5.1 +/- 2.3 degrees C in PGE1 non-administered group and 0.8 +/- 0.9 degree C in PGE1 administered group (P < 0.05). Pharyngeal-skin surface temperature gradients were 8.8 +/- 2.1 degrees C in PGE1 non-administered group and 1.5 +/- 1.5 degrees C in PGE1 administered group (P < 0.05). There were no significant differences between the two groups in respects to catecholamines, stress hormones, lactate level and blood sugar. PGE1 0.03 microgram.kg-1.min-1 is effective in maintaining peripheral circulation without causing body temperature changes during prolonged surgery.