Abstract

Background. Human body temperature is precisely regulated, maintaining stability within a few tenths of a degree under normal physiological conditions. Perioperative hypothermia, defined as a body temperature below 36°C, is common in surgical patients and can lead to disturbances in metabolism, nervous system function and thermoregulation. Anesthesia, which impairs thermoregulatory mechanisms, increases the risk of hypothermia. Even mild hypothermia can significantly raise the risk of complications such as cardiac damage, infections and delayed recovery.
Objectives. The purpose of this review article is to systematically and critically analyze the mechanisms of perioperative hypothermia, risk factors and to assess international and national treatment instructions. The standardized protocols described in the literature are also compared.
Results. Maintaining normothermia (36°C–37.5°C) significantly reduces postoperative complications such as infections, cardiovascular ischemic events, and bleeding disorders. Effective warming methods include forced air warming (FAW), circulating mattresses, and self-regulating heated garments. Active warming strategies, such as heated intravenous fluids, are vital to prevent heat loss and maintain temperature stability. Risk factors for hypothermia include older age, low BMI, high-risk surgery, and the use of certain medications.
Conclusion. Perioperative hypothermia is a common and serious problem that increases the risk of complications and delays recovery. This review article highlights the main risk factors and describes evidence -based measures to maintain body temperature such as early detection,
monitoring and active heating. Although the article did not detail existing standardized protocols, the analyzed literature follows that the purposeful use of these warm -up technologies is potential strategies for improving patients’ safety and treatment results that require further examination and clinical implementation.