Studying How Different Cooling Times Help Children Recover After Cardiac Arrest

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating the effect of different durations of induced hypothermia on brain recovery in children who are comatose after out-of-hospital cardiac arrest. This multicenter trial aims to determine whether longer cooling times improve the chances of good neurobehavioral recovery or enhance recovery in those already showing positive outcomes. The study involves pediatric patients from 2 days to under 18 years old who require intensive care after cardiac arrest. Participants are randomly assigned to one of several groups to receive controlled cooling to 33 degrees Celsius for durations ranging from no cooling normal temperature up to 96 hours, followed by a slow rewarming period of about 16 hours. After rewarming, participants are maintained at normal body temperature until the fifth day post-cardiac arrest. The trial monitors different cooling lengths to identify the optimal duration for neuroprotection. During the study, participants will be closely observed with assessments including the Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales at 12 months after return of spontaneous circulation. Additional measures include changes in cerebral performance, pediatric resuscitation outcomes, and survival rates at 12 months. Consent includes intent to maintain life support for 120 hours, and participants will be monitored throughout this timeframe with temperature control and mechanical ventilation support as part of their care.

Pediatric Influence of Cooling Duration on Efficacy in Cardiac Arrest Patients (P-ICECAP)