Julie Nangia Explains Scalp Cooling Devices for Chemotherapy Induced Hair Loss

Julie Nangia, MD, Baylor College of Medicine, explains the process for scalp cooling devices, in particular the Orbis Paxman Hair Loss Prevention System.

The device is used to prevent chemotherapy-induced hair loss. It is worn by the patient before, for the duration of, and after chemotherapy. The device is fitted and sized to the patient and starts with a cold sensation that the patient gradually acclimates to. In recent trial that Nangia presented at the 2016 Annual Meeting of the San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium, many of the patients reported on a comfort scale that the device was “reasonably” comfortable, according to Nangia. However, patients who have a history of migraines and headaches will not tolerate the device well.