Safety and Feasibility of a Novel Transnasal Cooling Device to Induce Normothermia in Febrile Cerebrovascular Patients.

backgroundInducing normothermia with surface cooling temperature modulating devices (TMDs) is cumbersome and often associated with significant shivering. We tested the safety and feasibility of a novel transnasal evaporative cooling device to induce and maintain normothermia in febrile patients following ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke.

methodsA single-center study utilizing the CoolStat® transnasal cooling device was used to achieve core temperature reduction in mechanically ventilated stroke patients with fever (T ≥ 38.3 C) refractory to acetaminophen by inducing an evaporative cooling energy exchange in the nasal turbinates thru a high flow of dehumidified air into the nasal cavity and out through the mouth. Continuous temperature measurements were obtained from tympanic and core (esophageal or bladder) temperature monitors. Safety assessments included continuous monitoring for hypertension, tachycardia, and raised intracranial pressure (when monitored). Otolaryngology (ENT) evaluations were monitored for any device-related nasal mucosal injury with a pre- and post-visual examination. Shivering was assessed every 30 min using the Bedside Shivering Assessment Scale (BSAS). Duration of device use was limited to 8 h, at which time patients were transitioned to routine care for temperature management.

resultsTen subjects (median age: 54 years, BMI: 32.5 kg/m

conclusionsInducing normothermia with a novel transnasal TMD appears to be safe, feasible and not associated with significant shivering. A multicenter trial testing the ability of the CoolStat to maintain normothermia for 24 h is currently underway.