Cold Gloves and Socks
Medical editor Bjørn Naume MD
Oncologist
Oslo University Hospital
Norway
Anne Kathrine Aares Tronstad
Oncology Nurse
Oslo University Hospital
NorwayGeneral
Clinical studies (Journal of Clinical Oncology – July 1, 2005 from Southwest Technologies) have shown that use of cold gloves and socks reduces nail loss and skin damage in patients receiving docetaxel and pegylated liposomal doxorubicin.
Indications
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Docetaxel treatment for prostate and breast cancer
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Pegylated liposomal doxorubicin treatment for ovarian cancer
Contraindications
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Should not be used in patients with curative treatment (adjuvant/neoadjuvant treatment of breast cancer)
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Raynaud's disease
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Distal metastases
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Distal arterial insufficiency
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Cold intolerance
Goal
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To avoid loosening/loss of nails or skin damage
- Preventing neuropathy
Equipment
The gloves and socks are made of a glycerine gel which maintains its elasticity also when frozen. The outer fabric is water-proof and elastic. The Velcro holds the products securely in place.
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Elasto-Gel cold gloves and/or socks
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Disposable gloves/socks for use inside
Preparation
- The products should be stored in the plastic bag in a freezer which maintains a temperature of -25 to -35°C for at least 12 hours before use. The elasticity is maintained in temperatures down to -30 °C.
- Gloves/socks should be used at each treatment to maintain the effect.
Implementation
- Wear disposable gloves/socks inside for hygienic reasons.
- Put on gloves/socks 15 minutes before treatment and remove at the earliest 15 minutes after the end of treatment.
- If the treatment lasts 1-1 ½ hours, the gloves/socks should be changed. This should take place after 45 minutes (or more often) if the patient feels they become too warm.
- Change the gloves/socks as quickly as possible to avoid reflexes caused by dilatation of blood vessels.
Follow-up
- Allow the gloves/socks to dry after use before they are put in the freezer again.
- As needed, clean the surfaces in contact with skin with soapy water and dry thereafter. Never immerse the gloves/socks in water.