System aims to reduce hair loss risk

Cooling the scalp during chemotherapy means that less of the chemotherapy drug reaches the hair follicles so the hair is less likely to fall out

Jan 2011

UK-based Paxman has launched a cooling system to reduce the risk of hair loss occurring as a result of during chemotherapy.

Paxman’s next generation hair loss prevention systems – Orbis I & II - aim to minimise patient distress with figures showing that on average 70-90 per cent of patients who use the system do not require a wig.

The company is at Arab Health, the largest healthcare trade show in the Middle East, which will run from January 24 to 27 at Dubai World Trade Centre.

With trials already underway in Kuwait and Abu Dhabi, the UAE offers Paxman further opportunities and they are looking forward to discussing further possibilities with potential distributors at the show, a statement said.

Cooling the scalp during chemotherapy means that less of the chemotherapy drug reaches the hair follicles so the hair is less likely to fall out; reducing distress for the patient at an already traumatic time and enabling them to have the confidence to live an unrestricted life.

“My illness would have been 100 per cent more difficult for me if I had not used the system. I wouldn't have felt confident enough to go out as much and my life would have taken longer to get back to normal, said Debbie Wolfe, a former patient.

Made from lightweight, silicone tubing, the scalp cooling cap itself is soft and flexible - providing a snug yet comfortable cap during treatment.

Moulding to all head shapes and sizes, liquid coolant passes through the cap extracting heat from the patient's scalp, ensuring the scalp remains at an even, constant temperature; minimising hair loss.

The caps are worn 30 minutes before the start of chemotherapy, during the treatment itself and for a period of time after infusion of the chemotherapy depending on the toxicity of the drugs.

With straightforward programming and controls, including recommended cooling time guides, the new compact system is uncomplicated and easy to understand for both medical staff and patients.

The Paxman system is available in two models. Orbis I provides cooling for a single patient and is suitable for a small chemotherapy suite or private bed, whilst the Orbis II provides cooling for one or two patients simultaneously with each cap working independently.

Richard Paxman, operations director, said: “Preserving self esteem during chemotherapy leads to a more positive attitude to treatment and gives patients a rare light in a dark time of their lives.”

“We’re passionate about providing help to patients around the world and hope Arab Health will allow us to offer the solution to thousands more patient’s worldwide,” he added.

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