THE USE OF HANDHELD HAIR DRIER AS A WARMER FOR HYPOTHERMIA POST LAPAROSCOPIC SURGERY
Background: Postoperative hypothermia is a common complication following laparoscopic surgery, particularly in resource-limited settings where standard warming equipment is unavailable. Hypothermia can lead to increased morbidity, prolonged hospital stays, and impaired wound healing.
Aim: To evaluate the safety and effectiveness of a domestic handheld hairdryer as a warming device for postoperative hypothermia.
Methods: Twenty postoperative patients (12 females, 8 males) presenting with core body temperature <36.0°C after laparoscopic surgery were managed using a handheld hairdryer set to low or medium heat. The device was held 30–50 cm from the patient and used intermittently over covered areas to avoid burns. Core temperature was monitored every 5 minutes.
Results: All patients achieved normothermia (≥36.5°C) within 4–10 minutes. There were no incidences of skin burns, discomfort, or other adverse effects. Patients reported improved thermal comfort and reduced shivering.
Conclusion: A domestic handheld hairdryer, when used cautiously, can serve as a practical and safe warming device for managing postoperative hypothermia in low-resource surgical settings.
Keywords: Postoperative hypothermia, hairdryer warming, surgical innovation, low-resource setting, laparoscopic surgery.
