From the Research
For hyperthermia treatment with the goal of lowering body temperature using the Altrix system, you should set the target temperature between 32-34°C (89.6-93.2°F). This temperature range represents mild therapeutic hypothermia, which is commonly used for neuroprotection after cardiac arrest or other conditions requiring temperature management 1. When initiating treatment, start with a target of 33°C and adjust based on patient response and clinical needs. The cooling process should be initiated promptly and maintained for 24-48 hours, followed by slow rewarming at a rate of 0.25-0.5°C per hour to prevent rebound hyperthermia.
Some key points to consider when using the Altrix system for hyperthermia treatment include:
- Rapid diagnosis and prompt cooling are pivotal, since the condition triggers a cascade of metabolic events which may progress to irreversible injury or death 2
- Ice-water immersion and evaporative cooling are the methods of choice for cooling hyperthermic patients 2
- Shivering should be prevented using sedation (propofol, dexmedetomidine) and possibly neuromuscular blockade if needed 1
- During treatment, closely monitor the patient's vital signs, coagulation parameters, electrolytes (particularly potassium, magnesium, and phosphate), and blood glucose levels, as hypothermia can affect these values 1
It's also important to note that hyperthermia can result in dangerously high core temperatures and can rapidly become fatal if left untreated 2. Therefore, it's crucial to initiate treatment promptly and maintain it for the recommended duration to prevent complications and improve patient outcomes.