Description

The Bair Hugger Warming Blanket, developed by 3M, is an integral component of a convective temperature management system designed to maintain patient core body temperature during surgical procedures. Widely utilized in hospitals and surgical centers, it plays a crucial role in preventing hypothermia and ensuring normothermia throughout the preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative phases.

System Functionality

The system operates using forced-air warming technology. A reusable warming unit delivers warm, filtered air through a flexible hose into the single-use blanket. The blanket, equipped with micro-perforations on its underside, evenly distributes the warm air across the patient's skin, effectively warming a substantial portion of the body surface depending on the model.

Design and Features

Crafted from soft, radiolucent, and latex-free materials, the blanket is available in various sizes and configurations to accommodate different surgical positions such as supine, prone, and lateral. Key features include:

• Micro-Perforations: Ensure uniform warming.
• Flexible Positioning: Re-sealable hose ports, integrated tie strips, and adhesive strips for secure placement.
• Head Drape and Neck Vents: Included in certain models to retain warm air around the head while allowing observation.
• Drain Holes: Allow fluid passage to reduce skin softening and unintended cooling.
• Pressure Point Design: Prevents heat from reaching areas vulnerable to pressure sores or burns.

Safety and Temperature Control

The system is equipped with mechanical thermostats, audible and visual alarms, and automatic shutoff features to prevent overheating. It offers multiple temperature settings, including 32°C, 38°C, and 43°C, along with an ambient mode. The warming units incorporate air filtration, with HEPA filters recommended for optimal performance.

Infection Control

As a single-use component, the blanket minimizes infection transmission and is not intended to enter sterile fields. Post-use, the disposable blankets are discarded, aligning with stringent infection control protocols.

Indications and Precautions

The Bair Hugger Warming Blanket is suitable for both adult and pediatric patients across various surgical procedures, including orthopedic and cardiac surgeries. It should not be used over trans-dermal medications or in patients undergoing specific treatments like intra-aortic balloon pump therapy. Continuous monitoring of patient temperature is advised to prevent thermal injury.

Regulatory Information

This FDA-cleared Class II medical device is intended for prescription use only. Since its invention in 1987 by Dr. Scott Augustine, the system has treated over 200 million patients. Despite a recall in January 2018 for certain blanket lots, the device continues to be endorsed by the FDA and independent bodies for its effectiveness and safety in clinical settings.