Importance

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Abstract

The invention discloses a method for preserving organs in brain-dead humans or cadavers which allows additional time for the organs to remain viable such that they may be harvested for subsequent transplantation. The method includes the steps of catheterizing the vessels or tissues around the organ sought to be preserved, introducing a temperature controlled solution to cool the organ to inhibit degenerative metabolism, oxygenating the organ and inhibiting free radicle damage. The temperature controlled organ preservation solution includes perfluorocarbons, antioxidants, tissue damage reversing and protecting agents, carrier vehicles, diluents, nutrients, and anti-coagulating agents. A device which performs this method is also disclosed. This device includes a fluid reservoir, an oxygen tank, a heat exchanger and removable catheter lines. Also disclosed is a method for brain resuscitation involving injections of 'warm' resuscitation solution followed by injection of 'cool' and oxygenated resuscitation solution.

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First Claim