How does hypothermia affect cardiac function in the perioperative period?

Hypothermia can significantly affect cardiac function in various ways, and the choice indicating that it may induce arrhythmias accurately reflects one of the primary concerns associated with decreased body temperature during the perioperative period. As body temperature drops, the electrical conductivity of cardiac tissues is altered, which can disrupt normal heart rhythms and lead to arrhythmias. The changes in temperature affect the action potentials of cardiac cells, making it harder for the heart to maintain a regular rhythm, particularly in a surgical setting where the patient is already under stress.

When the body temperature declines, there can also be effects on the autonomic nervous system, shifting the balance between sympathetic and parasympathetic influences. This shift can contribute to various types of arrhythmias such as bradycardia (slower heart rate) or other irregular rhythms, which is a critical concern during and after surgical procedures.

Understanding that hypothermia can lead to arrhythmias is essential for perioperative management, as it necessitates careful monitoring of cardiac function and appropriate interventions to maintain normothermia and minimize complications.