| abstract |
The present invention relates to the field of compositions of matter, disclosing compositions of matter which as aqueous solutions, may be used to perfuse a living or non-living subject in need of perfusion. The solutions according to the invention are typified by an aqueous solution comprising a polysaccharide oncotic agent, a physiologically compatible buffer, a simple hexose sugar, dissolved chloride salts of calcium, sodium and magnesium, and a dissolved organic salt of sodium. The solutions according to the invention are effective substitutes for blood. In addition the solution according to the invention may be used to preserve the biological integrity of the organs of a mammalian donor organism as shown by superior anatomical integrity of cryopreserved organs and tissues of subjects perfused with the solution of the invention. The solutions may be used for a number of purposes including maintaining a partially or substantially completely exsanguinated subject at temperatures substantially below those normally maintained by a mammal. The solutions may be used in conjunction with hyperbaric environments to maintain such partially or completed exsanguinated subjects alive without infusing blood back into the subject. Methods for using the solutions for these purposes are disclosed. |