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Autopsy: Emergency Room header image

Death in Minutes

This episode explores the role of the airway and its importance in keeping the body alive.

Death in Minutes

Through dissecting donated human cadavers, some of which have been plastinated, Dr von Hagens demonstrates how blocking or damaging the airways can cause irreversible harm to the body and cause death in a matter of minutes.

He also shows how such outcomes can be avoided by taking sometimes drastic measures; for example, by creating an artificial airway when the windpipe is otherwise blocked.

The presenters investigate natural spasms that can affect breathing under certain conditions, such as drowning. And they demonstrate how such natural reflexes can sometimes be used to help save a patient.


How Injuries Work: Death in Minutes

How Injuries Work
Death in Minutes

Programme Two: Death in Hours

Programme Two
Death in Hours

Programme Three: Permanent Damage

Programme Three
Permanent Damage



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