This invention introduces a portable and cost-effective scalp cooling device to help cancer patients prevent hair loss during chemotherapy. The device uses a special material called phase change material (PCM) that absorbs heat from the scalp, keeping it cool at a constant temperature between 4 °C and 8 °C . The cooling system includes an outer cover with a liquid nitrogen chamber and a layer of PCM between the scalp and the chamber. A liquid nitrogen storage tank fills the chamber through a controlled valve system. Temperature sensors monitor the PCM and scalp temperature, triggering the release of liquid nitrogen as needed. The device is designed to be lightweight, easy to wear, and does not require an external power supply, making it suitable for both personal and institutional use. This cooling process helps maintain a stable scalp temperature, preventing hair loss and boosting patients' confidence and self-esteem during chemotherapy.
Figure (1) Image illustrates experimental design of scalp cooling device as disclosed in one of the embodiments of present invention. (2) Labels.
- Chemotherapy-induced alopecia (CIA) is a distressing side effect of classic chemotherapeutic therapies, affecting up to 65% of recipients. This condition severely impacts patients' body image, sexuality, and self-esteem, leading up to 8% of patients to refuse chemotherapy due to the risk of hair loss.
- Scalp cooling is a proven preventive approach to reduce CIA, with devices like DigniCap and Paxman showing significant efficacy in clinical trials. However, existing scalp cooling equipment is expensive, typically hospital-bound, and limited in capacity, thereby restricting access and affordability for many patients.
- There is a critical need for an economical, portable, and efficient scalp cooling apparatus to make this preventive measure more accessible to cancer patients, thereby reducing CIA and improving their quality of life during chemotherapy.
- Maintains a scalp temperature between 4°C and 8°C, with even distribution of heat , providing consistent cooling and maximising comfort.
- Portable and Handy device, with an attachment free system, making it possible to use at home as well.
- No external power supply required, due to regulation by temperature sensors, reducing operating costs, energy consumption and increasing mobility.
- Meager cost of only about INR 25,000-50,000 compared to prior art cost of approx. INR 10 lacs, as well as low maintenance.
- Utilizes LIN, which is safe, non-toxic, and environmentally friendly , avoiding the use of refrigerants that contribute to greenhouse gases and global warming.
- The same principle can be applied to make cooling vests, ice bags and blood transfusion bags.
The scalp cooling device uniquely maintains scalp temperature between 4°C and 8°C using phase change material and liquid nitrogen, ensuring even and consistent cooling without the need for external power. It is portable, lightweight, and attachment-free, making it suitable for home use. The system is cost-effective (INR 25,000–50,000) compared to existing devices and is environmentally friendly, avoiding harmful refrigerants.
Using phase change material and liquid nitrogen, designed to be portable, lightweight, and power-free. It maintains scalp temperature through a regulated flow of liquid nitrogen based on sensor feedback.
It is currently available for licensing.
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- The scalp cooling device using phase change material (PCM) and liquid nitrogen (LIN) significantly enhances cancer patients' quality of life by preventing chemotherapy-induced hair loss, boosting self-esteem, and reducing psychological distress.
- Its economical design ensures accessibility for a broader population, promoting better treatment adherence and reducing overall healthcare costs.
- Environmentally friendly and sustainable, this portable and user-friendly device can be widely adopted in both developed and developing regions, diminishing the stigma of visible chemotherapy side effects and encouraging further innovation in non-invasive medical technologies.
Scalp cooling device can be used to prevent chemotherapy-induced hair loss. The same principle can also be applied to make cooling vests, ice bags and blood transfusion bags.
Geography of IP
Type of IP
202121045308
533365