Patent ID: 8011367
Filing Date: 2011-09-06
Classification: A61M

Abstract:
1. A method for increasing circulation and providing oxygen to a patient in cardiac arrest, said method comprising: providing an airway having an interface at one end, a valve system at an opposing end and an oxygen lumen, wherein the valve system is configured to prevent air from passing through the airway and to the patient's lungs until a threshold actuating pressure is achieved, and wherein the oxygen lumen passes through the interface and is adapted to transport a continuous supply of oxygen to the patient's lungs, wherein the oxygen lumen is configured to provide the continuous supply of oxygen to the lungs without interfering with operation of the valve system; coupling the interface to the patient's airway, the interface providing access to the patient's respiratory system; delivering oxygen through the oxygen lumen and the interface at a rate of between about 1.0 to about 10.0 L/min to provide a continuous supply of oxygen to the patient; while supplying the oxygen, manipulating a body structure of the patient to increase the magnitude and duration of the patient's positive and negative intrathoracic pressure, wherein during said manipulation the valve system prevents additional respiratory gases from entering the lungs until a negative intrathoracic pressure level in the range from about −1 cm H2O to about −15 cm H2O, the valve system assisting in increasing the magnitude and duration of negative intrathoracic pressure thereby enhancing the amount of blood flow in the heart and lungs and lowering intracranial pressure, therein further increasing blood flow to the brain.