In patients’ perioperative period due to general anesthesia hypothermia is the most common temperature variation, and has been associated with impaired patient outcome.This study aimed to compare the rectal temperature (RT) variation in males and females of dog species undergoing orthopedic surgery (OTS) to evaluate the effect of gender on body temperature control. The study included a sample of 140 dogs (N=140) divided into two groups, according to their genders: GF(females) and GM(males). Each group contained 70 individuals(n=70) submitted to OTS. At no time were these animals used as experimental animals. RT was recorded using a digital equilibrium soft tip thermometer which was inserted 1.5 cm into the rectum gently pressed against the regional mucosa,until the display showed a steady temperature value.Two different time points were used for RT measurement: M0(immediately before surgery) and M1(at the end of surgery). All patients at M0 was very close to the prime physiological range, and no statistically significant differences (P=0.086). At M1, statistically significant differences were registered between the groups (P< 0.001), with males presenting higher temperatures than females, with a variation of 1.6ºC between genders. Thermoregulation control mechanisms were appearing to be influenced by gender effect, being triggered first in males than in females allowing them to maintain overall higher body temperature. The practical implication of the study includes the obligation to consider the gender of the patient in the perioperative period, with extra-precautions to females reducing their higher risk to develop severe hypothermia.
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