IMT Medical Launches Hot IV Fluid Warming Device for Treatment of Hypothermia.

Business Editors & Health/Medical Writers

DALLAS--(BW HealthWire)--Aug. 5, 2002

IMT Medical of Dallas, Texas announced today the market introduction of its HOT I.V. fluid warming device for treatment of hypothermia. Hypothermia occurs when core temperatures of patients drop below 95(Degree) Fahrenheit (35(Degree) Celsius). The HOT I.V. fluid warming device increases the core temperature of the body. It enhances Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation and other emergency measures, which are often ineffective with core temperatures below 95(Degree) Fahrenheit (35(Degree) Celsius).

Hypothermia can have a negative effect on the metabolic and hemostatic functions of patients. Multiple methods of re-warming patients with hypothermia, as well as warming fluid administered through IV's, are currently used in the hospital and pre-hospital arena, but no product exists with the comparable features and benefits of the HOT I.V. "IMT Medical is the first company to market a portable, low-cost, effective, fluid warming device to treat hypothermia. We are very excited about not only the various applications in the medical industry, but also making the product available to the veterinary market for small animal uses," stated Matthew Cole, Chief Operating Officer.

Hypothermia is considered to exist whenever the core temperature of the human body is below 95(Degree) Fahrenheit (35(Degree)Celsius). Hypothermia is a significant problem in emergency care and trauma cases as well as major surgical procedures. Age is also a factor in hypothermia with the very young and the older population segment being the most vulnerable to hypothermia since lower core temperatures slow the rate of vital chemical activities in the body. Immediate treatments for hypothermia involve stopping further heat loss, restoring heat by fluid infusion of the patient, and gently handling the patient since the hypothermic condition can cause heart arrest and strokes. Dr. Bryan Bledsoe, noted author and EMS expert states, "Recent medical research has demonstrated the importance of avoiding hypothermia in emergency patients, especially those with trauma. The HOT I.V. provides an efficient and cost-effective way to both prevent and treat hypothermia in both the pre-hospital and emergency department setting. It may well become the standard of care in emergency hypothermia management."

IMT Medical Technologies was formed to research, engineer, manufacture and distribute proprietary technologies applicable to the medical industry. The Hot I.V. fluid warmer is the first product to be marketed. This lightweight warming device is located just inches away from the point of infusion in the body, to minimize heat loss. The HOT I.V. is lightweight (2.75 oz.), disposable, portable, and powered by a standard medical battery or electrical wall connection, making it ideal for emergency field applications or fixed site applications. Patent is pending.