Influence of comprehensive warming measure on coagulation function in aged patients during abdominal operation

Abstract

Objective To know the influence of intraoperative hypothermia on coagulation function of aged patients undergoing abdominal operation, and to investigate the effects of comprehensive warming measures on keeping the intraoperative temperature and improving the coagulation function. Methods 60 patients aged more than 65 who undergoing abdominal operation were randomly divided into the warming group (n=30) and the non-warming group (n=30). The comprehensive warming measures including using warming blanket, wetting and washing the the abdominal cavity with warm and hot brine as well as heated transfusion were performed in the warming group, while the regular nursing was performed in the non-warming group. The rectal temperatures of patients were recorded before operation, 1 hour after the beginning of operation and at the completion of operation. The amounts of blood loss and blood transfusion during the operation were also recorded. The index of coagulation function before and after operation were detected. Results Compared with the warming group, the body temperatures 1 hour after the beginning of operation and at the completion of operation were lower; the amounts of blood loss and blood transfusion during the operation were larger; the thrombin time prolonged; the peripheral blood platelets and fibrinogen were lower in the non-warming group. There were statistical meanings in all of the differences (P<0.05). Conclusions In aged patients, intraoperative hypothermia occurs easily during abdominal operation. Hypethermia can influence the coagulation function and increase the amount of intraoperative bleeding. The comprehensive warming measures can keep the body temperature and improve the coagulation function in aged patients undergoing abdominal operation. Key words: Aged; Digestive system surgical procedures; Body temperature changes; Blood coagulation; Operating room nursing