Comparison of two low-cost methods of cooling neonates with hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy

Abstract

Background: Several low-cost methods are used in resource-limited settings to provide therapeutic hypothermia in asphyxiated neonates. There is inadequate data about their efficacy and safety. Methods: This is a retrospective study comparing two low-cost cooling methods-frozen gel packs (FGP) and phase changing material (PCM). Results: There were 23 babies in FGP and 45 babies in the PCM group. Induction time was significantly shorter with FGP than PCM (45 vs. 90 minutes; p-value< 0.001). Proportion of temperature readings outside the target range was significantly higher (9.8% vs. 3.8%; p-value<0.001) and fluctuation of core body temperature was wider (standard deviation of target temperature 0.4 ° C vs. 0.28 ° C) in the FGP group, compared with PCM group. Conclusion: Both FGP and PCM are effective and safe, comparable with standard servo-controlled cooling equipment. PCM has the advantage of better maintenance of target temperature with less nursing input, when compared with FGP.