Minutes From Death

Part of the "Gunther's ER" series. The human brain suffers irreversible damage if deprived of oxygen for even a few minutes-a fact Dr. Gunther von Hagens demonstrates by utilizing human cadavers as examples. Simulating an artery injury to illustrate oxygen depletion through blood loss, von Hagens then focuses on problems affecting the trachea, the top priority for ER doctors. In order to show the major structures of the airway and how they can be blocked by foreign objects, von Hagens inserts an endoscope into his own throat and saws a frozen body's throat in half, revealing the major structures of the airway and their potential weaknesses. Red Cross first-aid expert Emma Rand explains simple techniques for clearing the airway, while emergency medicine consultant Dr. John Heyworth shows how paramedics treat complex trachea damage. NOTE: Viewer discretion is advised. Contains clinically explicit language and nudity.

(Source: DCMP)