Non-invasive continuous core temperature measurement by zero heat flux.

Reliable continuous core temperature measurement is of major importance for monitoring patients. The zero heat flux method (ZHF) can potentially fulfil the requirements of non-invasiveness, reliability and short delay time that current measurement methods lack. The purpose of this study was to determine the performance of a new ZHF device on the forehead regarding these issues. Seven healthy subjects performed a protocol of 10 min rest, 30 min submaximal exercise (average temperature increase about 1.5 °C) and 10 min passive recovery in ambient conditions of 35 °C and 50% relative humidity. ZHF temperature (T(zhf)) was compared to oesophageal (T(es)) and rectal (T(re)) temperature. ΔT(zhf)-T(es) had an average bias ± standard deviation of 0.17 ± 0.19 °C in rest, -0.05 ± 0.18 °C during exercise and -0.01 ± 0.20 °C during recovery, the latter two being not significant. The 95% limits of agreement ranged from -0.40 to 0.40 °C and T(zhf) had hardly any delay compared to T(es). T(re) showed a substantial delay and deviation from T(es) when core temperature changed rapidly. Results indicate that the studied ZHF sensor tracks T(es) very well in hot and stable ambient conditions and may be a promising alternative for reliable non-invasive continuous core temperature measurement in hospital.