Paxman has been pioneering scalp cooling technology worldwide for over 25 years, with research and development into other cryotherapy applications underway. The company has developed a clinically proven and cost-effective cold cap system that combats chemotherapy-induced hair loss, through extensive trials and product development research with the University of Huddersfield.
Chemotherapy-induced alopecia (CIA) is widely recognised as one of the most traumatic side effects of cancer treatment. Paxman manufactures and supplies the world leading Paxman Scalp Cooling System (PSCS), used by cancer patients globally to minimise this side effect and promote healthy, quicker regrowth.
Paxman installed its first prototype scalp cooler at Huddersfield Royal Infirmary in 1997 and began addressing a critical clinical need. Over the years, advancements in technology and company growth allowed for better design and manufacturing methods, improving distribution and success. To accelerate this success and allow more patients to prevent hair loss during cancer treatment, Paxman sought the expertise of the University of Huddersfield and the 3M BIC in 2012 for design and mass customisation of a new scalp cooling cap and to facilitate knowledge exchange.
The preliminary research phase focused on developing initial prototypes of a scalp model, utilising EOS PA nylon material to create a mould using the in-house 3D technologies at the 3M BIC. The new cap design aimed for a close fit, uniform coolant circulation, and high patient comfort that adhered to US/EU medical standards. The 3D mould facilitated the creation of a proof-of-concept flexible 3D folded silicone cap, featuring a patented scalp-contact surface and a boustrophedonic coolant flow route to maximise heat exchange.
Since the early-stage mould prototypes at the 3M BIC, Paxman has undertaken several collaborations with the University of Huddersfield, including multiple Knowledge Transfer Partnerships (KTPs) aimed at enhancing scalp cooling devices and developing a novel single-use cooling cap system. It has achieved regulatory approvals internationally (including FDA clearance in USA and Shonin in Japan), won multiple awards, and has been commercially successful in over 60 countries, benefitting over 100,000 cancer patients worldwide.
Paxman now boasts 80% of the market share and established the world’s first Scalp Cooling Research Centre in 2019, based at the University of Huddersfield, with a joint investment of £1m. The Centre focused on biological research, 3D printed cooling caps and the development of topically applied products to enhance the efficacy of scalp cooling.
“Leveraging the research expertise at the University of Huddersfield and the 3D printing capabilities at the 3M BIC has had a huge impact on our product development and company growth. Together, our partnership established Huddersfield and West Yorkshire as key leader in chemotherapy side effect management research. We remain incredibly grateful for our collaboration with the University of Huddersfield and for the subsequent connections and progress we have made in advancing patient cancer care.”
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