Pediatric surgery international
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Pediatr. Surg. Int. · Feb 2006
Comparative Study Controlled Clinical TrialWater-filled garment warming of infants undergoing open abdominal or thoracic surgery.
We have assessed the efficacy of a water-filled garment (ThermoWrap-Allon 2001) to maintain normothermia in small infants during major open abdominal or thoracic surgery. Twenty-two patients were studied in a case-matched comparison of two methods of thermal control intended to maintain core body temperature at 37 degrees C. The standard method involved a warm air mattress with additional insulation. ⋯ Some infants had cold hands with the ThermoWrap. Core temperature is better preserved with the ThermoWrap; extra insulation of exposed arms may be necessary. An important advantage of the ThermoWrap is its ability to control body temperature automatically.