Abstract: A method of cooling and rewarming large organs and tissues at sub-zero temperatures is provided. The method includes perfusion of tissue with inert fluids that remain liquid at very low temperatures. The inert fluids can include fluorocarbons, silicones, or fluorosilicones. Glycol ethers are used as a novel class of cryoprotective agents for organ and tissue preservation. The glycol ethers have improved viscosity, penetration, and glass forming properties.

Abstract: A method of cryopreserving biological material by administering a cryoprotective agent mixture is provided. The mixture must be produced in a concentration sufficient to permit vitrification. The cryoprotective agent is an alkoxylated organic compound. The method includes administering the cryoprotective agent mixture and cooling the biological material until it is vitrified. Preferred cryoprotective mixtures contain 3 methoxy-1,2 propanediol and 2-methoxy ethanol.

Abstract: A method and apparatus utilize liquid ventilation to increase the efficacy of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). The method involves replacing gas in the lungs with an oxygen and carbon dioxide carrying liquid to eliminate the decreased pumping efficiency of the heart seen during conventional or active compression-decompression (ACD) closed-chest CPR. A further advantage during ACD-CPR is the ability to perform liquid ventilation without a mechanical respirator. A further advantage is provided by supplying a continuous flow of liquid (or gaseous) ventilation medium throughout the entire chest compression/re-expansion cycle, dramatically accelerating both gas exchange and cooling or warming of the patient or animal subject.

Abstract: A method for treating or preventing anoxic or ischemic brain injury that includes administering melatonin to a person who is suffering from or has a high risk of suffering from an anoxic or ischemic insult or injury. The method may also include administering complementary agents.

Abstract: The present invention is concerned with improved aqueous asanguineous perfusates, blood substitutes for profound hypothermia, and method of using the same. The perfusates comprise:______________________________________ Component Molar Conc., mM Grams/liter ______________________________________ Hydroxyethyl starch, 40 to 60 gms MW = 500,000 Glucose 5-15 0.9-2.7 Sodium bicarbonate 5-20 0.42-1.68 Potassium chloride 15-40 1.15-3.33 Calcium chloride 0.5-2.04 0.074-0.294 Magnesium chloride 0.25-2.5 0.051-0.510 HEPES or THAM 7.2-15 1.72-3.90 Sodium phosphate, 7.2-15 monobasic, MW = 120.0 Mannitol or sucrose 0-170 0-30.97.

Abstract: The invention discloses a method for providing circulation, usually when it has substantially decreased or ceased, such as during cardiac arrest. The method includes the steps of intubating the airway of a patient, to provide access to the lungs. The air and other material in the lungs is then evacuated. A liquid breathing solution is then infused into the lungs, expanding the lungs such that the lungs compress the heart and great vessels, to generate cardiac outflow and ultimately circulation. A device that performs this method is also disclosed.