Overview of Science and Mission
Clinical Science
Therapeutic Hypothermia Protocol
What is Therapeutic Hypothermia?
Therapeutic hypothermia is the only proven therapy following cardiac arrest and is recommended by the American Heart Association for comatose cardiac arrest survivors. Studies have shown that only 6 patients need to receive therapeutic hypothermia for a life to be saved.
The University of Chicago's therapeutic hypothermia protocol induces cooling 1-2 hours after arrest (to 33 degrees Celsius) and maintains that temperature for 24 hours before re-warming. The protocol is for patients over the age of 18 who have achieved return of spontaneous circulation following cardiac arrest and should be used within 6 hours of the event.
THERAPEUTIC HYPOTHERMIA
The ONLY proven therapy after cardiac arrest.
- American Heart Association recommends cooling comatose cardiac arrest survivors.
- Only 6 patients need to be treated to save a life.
| For patients with… | NOT for patients with… |
-Cardiac arrest |
- Refractory shock - Refractory Ventricular Arrhythmia - Other, more likely, causes for coma - Severe pre-existing neurologic impairment - Coagulopathy or uncontrollable bleeding - End-stage terminal illness |
Where can I get a copy of the protocal? The University of Chicago has developed and uses a protocol for the administration of therapeutic hypothermia to victims of cardiac arrest. (This protocal is in a PDF format. Please feel free to download a copy.) |
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