Analysis of the characteristic patterns and risk factors impacting the severity of intraoperative hypothermia in neonates

Abstract

Background Although maintaining a stable body temperature during the perioperative period is crucial for the recovery of neonates, hypothermia frequently occurs during surgical procedures in this vulnerable population. A comprehensive analysis of intraoperative details, including medical history and monitoring, is therefore essential for understanding temperature variations and identifying risk factors for severe hypothermia. Objective In this study, we delineated the characteristic patterns of intraoperative temperature fluctuations in neonates and determined the risk factors impacting the severity of hypothermia. Methods We conducted a retrospective, single-center study, enrolling 648 subjects who underwent surgery under general anesthesia and collected demographic, perioperative, and intraoperative data. Results Intraoperative hypothermia occurred in 79.17% of the neonates. Significant risk factors for severe hypothermia included surgery type (OR, 1.183; 95%, CI [1.028–1.358]; p = 0.018), preoperative weight (OR, 0.556; 95% CI [0.412–0.748]; p < 0.01), infusion and transfusion volume (mL/kg) (OR, 1.011; 95% CI [1.001–1.022]; p = 0.018), and duration of hypothermia (OR, 1.011; 95% CI [1.007–1.014]; p < 0.01). Preterm neonates experienced a greater temperature drop than did full-term neonates. The nadir of intraoperative temperature occurred approximately 90 min after surgery, followed by a brief stabilization period and a slow recovery process. Conclusion The significant incidence of intraoperative hypothermia in neonates highlights the need for efficient strategies that reduce both the frequency and severity of this condition.