The human brain suffers irreversible damage if deprived of oxygen for even a
few minutes—a fact Dr. Gunther von Hagens demonstrates in this program,
utilizing human cadavers. 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. Von Hagens inserts an
endoscope into his own throat and saws a frozen body in half to reveal the
major structures of the airway—showing how easily they can be blocked by
foreign objects. 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. Viewer
discretion is advised. Contains clinically explicit language and
demonstrations. (48 minutes)
VHS is Closed-Captioned
