Hair loss (alopecia) is a much feared side effect of chemotherapy and is one of the most psychologically devastating aspects of cancer treatment. More than 80% of patients who receive chemotherapy consider hair loss the most distressing aspect of their treatment.
HOW IT WORKSThe cold temperature of the cap constricts the blood vessels beneath the skin of the scalp, preventing the chemotherapy medicine from reaching the hair follicles, therefore allowing the patient to preserve their hair. This process is referred to as vasoconstriction. The cold also slows down the hair follicle metabolism, making the hair cells dormant or less active, further preventing the absorption of chemotherapeutic drugs. During chemotherapy treatment, the patient wears the cap for:
Polar Cold Caps must be changed every 30 minutes during this entire process to ensure the scalp remains cold. Premedication infusion is not considered chemotherapy and caps can be worn during this time. INSTRUCTIONAL VIDEO
As mentioned in the instructional video, important items to keep in mind while using Polar Cold Caps include:
Proper technique is essentially important to ensure best possible results. |
USER GUIDELINES
When removing cap, simply undo chin strap and remove cap as a helmet. Do not undo other fastened straps. Be sure next cap is ready to go prior to removing cap. Polar Cold Caps are numbered 1 - 6. Be sure to use in numeric sequence to allow for sufficient freeze time. |
POLAR COLD CAP STORAGE
Once you have received the Polar Cold Caps, place in ordinary home freezer with gel side facing out within each individual cap container. Contact a local dry ice supplier and order a total of 80 lbs of dry ice. 40 lbs in slab form (4 slabs at 10 lbs each), 40 lbs in pellet form.
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Once completed with treatment, place caps back in containers with gel side facing out and return to ordinary home freezer. To avoid damage, do not leave caps under dry ice overnight.
Please speak with your dry ice supplier regarding the appropriate safety precautions when dealing with dry ice. Be sure to always wear safety goggles and safety gloves when dealing with dry ice.
Please understand hair loss prevention (chemotherapy induced alopecia) is not guaranteed and individual results may vary. Use Polar Cold Caps at your own risk. Please consult with your physician prior to using this product.