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Physiology and Pharmacology of Hypothermia

Abstract
Homoiothermic organisms react to hypothermia by shivering and thermogenesis to retain their euthermic state. This reactive homeostatic mechanism recruits a strong sympathetic response, which must be suppressed by anesthesia and adjuvants during induced hypothermia. Below 30° C there is significant neural and organ depression associated with cold narcosis. Cardiac arrhythmias and ventricular fibrillation are grave developments when the core temperature is below 28° C. Proper cardiopulmonary support must be instituted in a patient who has induced or accidental hypothermia at these severely hypothermic levels.

Publication details
Download http://www.pubmedcentral.gov/articlerender.fcgi?artid=1010688
Repository PubMed Central (PMC3 - NLM DTD) (United States)
Keywords Medical Progress
Type Text
Language Englisch

Publications citing this publication (1)
Hypothermia in trauma victims - Friend or foe? (2004)