Accidental hypothermia: an experimental study of inhalation rewarming.

Inhalation rewarming of hypothermic humans with heated, humidified oxygen was compared to rewarming by immersion in a hot bath. In 10 subjects cooled to approximately 35 degrees C core temperature, there was no significant difference in the amount of temperature "afterdrop" with the two rewarming procedures. Inhalation rewarming provided rapid commencement of increase in tympanic and esophageal temperatures, indicating effective rewarming of critical core regions, especially heart and brain. This method of core rewarming avoids the physiological hazards associated with the peripheral vasodilation which accompanies external rewarming. Moverover the simplicity of application of this method suggests its greater use in both first-aid and hospital treatment of accidental hypothermia.