Thermoregulation: physiological and clinical considerations during sedation and general anesthesia

Anesth Prog. 2010 Spring;57(1):25-32; quiz 33-4. doi: 10.2344/0003-3006-57.1.25.

Abstract

Mild hypothermia is common during deep sedation or general anesthesia and is frequently associated with patient discomfort and shivering. Greater declines in temperature can produce an even greater number of significant detrimental effects. This article reviews principles of thermoregulation and influences of anesthetic agents. An understanding of these will provide a foundation for strategies to reduce heat loss and better manage patient discomfort when it occurs.

MeSH terms

  • Anesthesia, Dental / adverse effects
  • Anesthesia, Dental / methods*
  • Anesthesia, General / adverse effects*
  • Anesthetics / adverse effects
  • Body Temperature Regulation / drug effects*
  • Body Temperature Regulation / physiology*
  • Conscious Sedation / adverse effects*
  • Humans
  • Hypothalamus / physiology
  • Hypothermia / chemically induced
  • Hypothermia / prevention & control
  • Malignant Hyperthermia / etiology
  • Thermosensing / drug effects
  • Thermosensing / physiology

Substances

  • Anesthetics