Targeted Temperature Management at 35°C vs. 37°C for Heatstroke in ICU: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial

The authors aimed to evaluate the feasibility of a trial comparing targeted temperature management (TTM) at 35°C versus 37°C in intubated heatstroke patients, while also gathering preliminary data on safety and clinical outcomes. The pilot study found that while TTM at 35°C was operationally feasible, it was associated with significantly higher rates of severe gastrointestinal injury and arrhythmias, without demonstrating benefits in survival or functional outcomes. Consequently, the authors suggest that this hypothermia strategy should not be routinely implemented in ICU management of heatstroke.