Device for applying a pulsating pressure to a local region of the body and applications thereof

Abstract

The present invention generally relates to a device for applying a pulsating pressure to a local region of the body and applications thereof. The device may be used to increase the blood flow in a local region of the body, and in preferred embodiments provides a device for regulating the core body temperature of a patient.

1 . A method for effecting a change in the core body temperature of a patient comprising:
 transferring thermal energy to or from a limb through a liquid medium whilst subjecting the limb to a pulsating pressure generated through the liquid medium; and   administering one or more anaesthetic agents to the patient prior to the transfer of thermal energy to reduce sympathetic responses in the limb of the patient.   
     
     
         2 . The method for effecting a change in the core body temperature of a patient as claimed in  claim 1 , wherein the pulsating pressure is a pulsating negative pressure.