Extracorporeal venovenous recirculation for the treatment of hypothermia during elective aortic surgery: a phase I study.

Background. Hypothermia caused by massive transfusion or prolonged exposure during operation is difficult to reverse and is associated with adverse side effects. This prospective, randomized study evaluated a technique using extracorporeal venovenous recirculation (EVR) through a roller pump-driven device with a commercial countercurrent heat exchanger used for treatment of hypothermia (temperature <35.5 o C) occurring during elective aortic operation. Methods. Patients undergoing aortic operation had routine prophylaxis against hypothermia including ventilator cascades, warming blankets, and low-velocity fluid warmers