Importance

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Abstract

A device is provided for therapeutically treating a desired region of a patient's body with a nonambient temperature treatment fluid circulated through a pliant heat transfer element positioned on the treatment region. In accordance with one embodiment, the device has a fluid inlet line supplying the treatment fluid to the heat transfer element from a fluid reservoir, and a fluid outlet line returning the treatment fluid to the fluid reservoir from the heat transfer element. The inlet and outlet lines are enclosed within a unitary sheath and a manual bulb pump is provided for driving the nonambient temperature treatment fluid between the reservoir and the heat transfer element. In accordance with another embodiment, fluid drive is provided by a motor-driven submersible pump positioned in the reservoir. Temperature control of the heat transfer element is enabled by adjusting the fluid flow rate therethrough. In accordance with yet another embodiment, the device has a pump and a single fluid flow line. A network of valves and fittings are provided in the fluid flow line to enable alternate fluid flow from the reservoir to the heat transfer element and from the heat transfer element to the reservoir.

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First Claim