A clinical feasibility trial presented at the recent American Heart Association (AHA) conference in Chicago last month demonstrated that endovascular therapeutic hypothermia may help prevent contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN).
The study, sponsored by endovascular temperature therapy product developer Radiant Medical of Redwood City, CA, was designed to evaluate the feasibility of preventing CIN, an acute decline in kidney function after the administration of contrast agents, in high-risk patients.
The company said that patients were treated with its endovascular temperature therapy system, a venous heat-exchange catheter that enables rapid induction of mild hypothermia and rewarming. Patients with pre-existing renal insufficiency scheduled for an angiography, angioplasty, or stenting procedure were rapidly cooled to 33º-34º C prior to administration of contrast media.
Of the 30 patients enrolled at eight medical centers worldwide, the firm reported that only 10% experienced CIN, although the expected incidence of CIN was estimated at 40%, based on a previous study of patients with a similar risk profile.
By AuntMinnie.com staff writers
December 7, 2006
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