Cooling Cap Device Description
The Cooling Cap device is used for patients undergoing chemotherapy to prevent or reduce hair loss caused by chemotherapy drugs. Hair loss, or alopecia, is a common side effect of most chemotherapy drugs used in cancers such as breast, testicular, and stomach cancer. The only safe and effective method to prevent or reduce hair loss, as confirmed by oncology reference books, numerous articles, and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), is scalp cooling. The effectiveness of this method is measured by maintaining more than 51% of the hair and not needing a wig.
Chemotherapy drugs affect the scalp and hair follicles. Depending on the type and dose of the prescribed drug, chemotherapy can cause hair loss on the scalp (and possibly other parts of the body). This hair loss starts about two to four weeks after the first treatment session and usually leads to complete baldness within a month (for some drugs). Although this baldness is almost always reversible, meaning hair growth resumes after treatment ends and within a few months, the hair returns to its previous volume. However, hair loss is unpleasant for many patients.
The only effective method that has been used worldwide for several years with promising results is scalp cooling. In the past, this was done with ice packs, but in recent years, devices have been developed that can control scalp temperature more effectively and accurately. This method has been researched by reputable medical centers worldwide and is now included in major scientific references. In 2016, this method received FDA approval for its effectiveness and safety.
The cooling cap device can be used simultaneously for two people. It includes a cooling unit, a set of caps, and accessories. The cooling unit cools the liquid and circulates it through the caps, displaying the real-time temperature of the water entering the cap to help the technician monitor the temperature throughout the treatment. The refrigerant fluid, after cooling and pumping, is directed through insulated tubes and leak-proof connections into a specially designed silicone cap. The cap, like a regular hat, is placed on the head (hair and scalp) without interfering with the main chemotherapy treatment. The device’s electronic controller maintains the scalp temperature within a specific range (3 to 5 degrees Celsius) for a specified duration determined by the specialist, depending on the chemotherapy regimen, before, during, and after chemotherapy (a total of 2 to 5 hours). Clinically, this reduces blood flow to the follicles and lowers their biochemical activity, reducing the likelihood or amount of hair loss.
Reports indicate that at least half of the patients using the cooling cap did not need a wig. However, using it does not necessarily guarantee hair preservation, and the overall success of this method depends on the treatment regimen. In some treatment regimens, such as Paclitaxel (Taxol), the effectiveness of this treatment method is very high if used correctly and consistently.
How does scalp cooling reduce hair loss?
By lowering the scalp temperature and maintaining it between 3 to 5 degrees Celsius, blood flow to the hair follicles is reduced, and their biochemical activity is lowered, slowing down the metabolism of the drug and reducing the severity of hair loss. This device has replaced passive methods such as ice packs due to its higher effectiveness and lower cost and has been well-received by patients and medical centers worldwide in recent years.
When should the cooling cap be used?
The cooling cap should be used during all chemotherapy sessions, starting half an hour before the drug injection and continuing for 1 to 2.5 hours after, depending on the type of drug. The cap features non-spill quick couplings, allowing the patient to move if necessary without removing the cap.
These caps are designed according to the latest standards and come in two sizes, Small and Large, to accommodate different head anatomies. Additionally, each cap is fitted with an insulating neoprene cover that uses the BOA Fit System to ensure complete and even cooling of the entire scalp, preventing localized hair loss.
