초록 ▼

A system for exchanging heat with the body of a patient for cooling or warming the patient provides for automatic temperature control in accordance with the monitored temperature of the patient. The system comprises at least one fluid circuit in communication with an indwelling catheter, and a tempe

A system for exchanging heat with the body of a patient for cooling or warming the patient provides for automatic temperature control in accordance with the monitored temperature of the patient. The system comprises at least one fluid circuit in communication with an indwelling catheter, and a temperature control module, wherein body temperature measurements are used to control the temperature of fluid circulating within the fluid circuit.

대표청구항 ▼

[ What is claimed:] [1.] An apparatus for changing and maintaining the temperature of at least a portion of the body of a patient, the apparatus comprising:an indwelling catheter adapted for heat exchange within the body;a self-contained primary fluid circuit in fluid flow communication with the ind

[ What is claimed:] [1.] An apparatus for changing and maintaining the temperature of at least a portion of the body of a patient, the apparatus comprising:an indwelling catheter adapted for heat exchange within the body;a self-contained primary fluid circuit in fluid flow communication with the indwelling catheter, the primary circuit adapted to contain a first circulating fluid therein;a self-contained secondary fluid circuit which is in heat exchange relationship with the primary fluid circuit and adapted to contain a second circulating fluid therein, the first and second fluids being in fluid-flow isolation from each other; anda temperature control module for changing the temperature of the second fluid,wherein the primary circuit is provided with a detector for sensing fluid loss, the detector comprising:a fluid volume reservoir in fluid communication with the primary circuit, the fluid volume reservoir assuming a first configuration when the first fluid level is at an acceptable level and assuming a second configuration when the first fluid level is at an unacceptable level; anda switch adapted to toggle between first and second states depending on the configuration of the fluid volume reservoir.