OHC understands that for many cancer patients, hair loss is their most feared side effect of chemotherapy treatment. OHC offers an option that has been proven to prevent hair loss in some patients.
OHC is the exclusive regional provider of the Paxman Scalp Cooling System. Also known as the ‘cold cap’, scalp cooling can be used to combat chemotherapy-induced alopecia (hair loss) and has a positive impact on the confidence, strength and hope of the patients who choose to use it.
Scalp cooling lowers the temperature of the scalp immediately before, during, and after chemotherapy. This, in turn, reduces blood flow to the area around the hair follicles, which may prevent or minimize hair loss.
- The Paxman system has a compact refrigeration unit containing a coolant that is circulated through a specially designed, flexible silicone Paxman Cooling Cap.
- You will be fitted for your own personal cooling cap; a soft, flexible silicone cap that provides a close fit to your head.
- The refrigeration unit is connected to your cap and coolant passes through the cap. It extracts heat from the scalp, while inline temperature sensors ensure that the temperature of the scalp is kept at an even, constant temperature.
- You will wear the Paxman Scalp Cooling Cap for 30 minutes before and during chemotherapy infusion, and for a maximum of 90 minutes afterward, depending on your therapy.
Typically, patients select four treatments, which cost approximately $1300. Contact your insurance carrier to see if the cost is covered. You may be eligible for a financial assistance program through Paxman. Visit the Paxman web site to learn more.
If you’d like to try the Paxman system or for more information, please call OHC at 1-800-710-4674.
