Early cooling of the brain using burn dressings
-a proof of concept observation-

Early cooling of resuscitated patients improves neurological outcome. The
beneficial effect of cooling is primarily caused by lowering the cerebral
metabolism by reduction of the brain temperature. this effect is enhanced by
the early initiation of the cooling. Prehospital cooling however is uncommon
for mainly practical reasons. Using burn dressings to initiate cooling in the
prehospital care could be of value and is easily adaptable by ambulance crews.
The influence of burn dressings on brain temperature is however unknown

To determine the effect of the application of burn dressings on the skin of
face and neck on the tympanic temperature of healthy volunteers.

Proof of concept observation

Considering the non invasive nature of the intervention, measurements and the
absence of other chemical compounds than water and a vegetable oil (Melaleuca
alternifolia) in the dressings used, the burden and discomfort to the study
subjects (if any) is expected to be minor. People with allergies tot Melaleuca
alternifolia or plants of the Myrtaceae family may be more likely to show
allergic reactions as rashes and skin swelling, although literature provides
only case reports of application of the substance to affected skin. No
literature addressing adverse events of the cutaneous use of Melaleuca
alternifolia is available.

There is no potential benefit to the study subjects other than the possible
skin-smoothening effects of the combination of water and Melaleuca
alternifolia.