Hypothermia is a common postsurgical problem, yet information documenting the impact of laparoscopy on perioperative heat balance is scarce. This paper quantifies the changes in core temperature over a 3-h period of high-flow CO2 insufflation in a randomized, controlled trial of six pigs. Each animal was anesthetized and studied on three occasions under standardized conditions, acting as its own control via insufflation with no gas compared with insufflation by cold gas and warmed gas. Insufflation of CO2 gas at high-flow rates over a prolonged period of time results in a significant fall in core temperature. The provision of warmed rather than cold insufflated gas confers no protection against changes in core temperature during laparoscopic surgery due to the small amount of heat required to warm the gas to body temperature. A much greater effect is the latent heat required to saturate the insufflated gas. Most of the hypothermic effect is due to this, and could be minimized by humidifying the flow.

2D animation is an effective medium for delivering information to patients undergoing bowel surgery and can potentially reduce anxiety related to surgery and improve the hospital experience.

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Day surgery for groin hernia repair is safe and effective for most patients. However, evidence-based support is only one of many factors that may contribute to the uptake of day surgery in Australia. There is an opportunity for key stakeholders across the private healthcare system to deliver an equally effective but more sustainable and affordable hernia care by increasing the day surgery rates.