Bair Hugger for measuring core temperature during perioperative care

Level of innovation

All 3 specialist commentators considered the Bair Hugger temperature monitoring system to be a novel concept for core temperature measurement.

Potential patient impact

One specialist commentator felt that it was potentially of benefit to all patients having anaesthesia because it is less invasive than other core thermometers, as well as being accurate and user-friendly. One specialist commentator thought that groups of people who may particularly benefit are patients having orthopaedic, colorectal or spinal surgery. This is because there is an increased risk of surgical site infection and, in the case of orthopaedic surgery, the patient is often awake during the procedure so invasive temperature monitoring is inappropriate.

Two specialist commentators suggested that more accurate core temperatures in awake patients may reduce the number of complications from inadvertent perioperative hypothermia. They felt that if used proactively to prevent hypothermia, there could be improved patient health outcomes by encouraging warming interventions, particularly preoperatively. Preoperative warming of patients reduces the risk of hypothermia during induction of an anaesthetic. Maintaining normal temperature in the perioperative phase can reduce the incidence of surgical site infection, prevent delayed wound healing, and reduce blood loss. These may all lead to a reduction in the length of stay in the recovery room and also reduce hospital stay. Promoting more active warming in the perioperative journey may also increase patient comfort and patient satisfaction.

One specialist commentator felt that it could be used for targeted temperature management as part of post-cardiac arrest care. Currently, the device is only promoted for perioperative care. The specialist commentators did not identify any other groups of people with specific conditions who would particularly benefit from Bair Hugger.

One specialist commentator noted that some patients may find the device uncomfortable and restrictive in the period of monitoring before and after surgery. They noted that it is also unclear whether there are any infection risks or tissue viability issues if the adhesive sensor is attached for a prolonged period of time. The size and positioning of the sensor may be prohibitive in people having head or face surgery, or in children. Two specialist commentators stated that complications from core temperature probes could be reduced, although one specialist commentator noted that the number of these is low.

Potential system impact

Specialist commentators thought that using the Bair Hugger temperature monitoring system would have minimal impact on NHS services. They also did not believe it would lead to direct cost savings. Two specialist commentators noted that the device is more expensive than current technologies, but that it could make health care professionals more aware of inadvertent perioperative hypothermia. This would help ensure hypothermia is treated appropriately, potentially reducing costs by reducing complications.