The incidence of accidental hypothermia in adults is estimated to be around 1.1 per 100,000 inhabitants per year, with major variations in a etiologies and risk factors depending on demographic data and countries [1,2]. The associated mortality rate varies from 12% to 38% and is mainly explained by the initial an etiology [3,4].
The main risk of hypothermia is the occurrence of cardiovascular inefficacy - i.e., cardiac arrest - resulting from Ventricular Fibrillation (VF). The incidence of VF’s occurrence is correlated with the depth of hypothermia [5]. VF is preceded in 35% to 50% [5] of cases by a Path gnomonic Electro Cardio Graphic (ECG) abnormality known as an Osborn wave or J wave. An Osborn wave is a positive deflection at the J point, which is usually most prominent in the pericardial leads. Its amplitude increases with the depth of hypothermia but might not be associated with fatal arrhythmic events [6].
Hypothermia treatment is based on external and/or internal progressive rewarming [7]. External rewarming methods include active and passive options. Internal rewarming can be achieved by minimally invasive active core rewarming, invasive active core rewarming by Extra Corporeal Blood Warming (ECMO) and non-ECMO methods, including body cavity rewarming, closed thoracic ravage and an endovascular temperature control device. To date, no recommendation exists on the order of implementing therapeutic methods.
R Jouffroy¹,², G Gueret², C Mercier¹, D Jost², and B Prunet²