Combat Oxygenation Device to Remedy ARDS

The COMBAT OXYGENATION DEVICE (COD) is a small, portable device that provides instant oxygenation and CO2 removal for warfighters with battle-compromised lungs on the battlefield, specifically from blast, chemical, and biological attacks, targeting the subsequent Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) which results. This device gently rejuvenates damaged lungs by spraying an oxygenated liquid perfluorocarbon (LP) into the lungs, which (1) provides a large bolus of oxygen to the bloodstream while reducing inflammation, (2) recruits alveoli filled with plasma or infection for continued oxygenation, (3) acts a pulmonary surfactant allowing the recruited alveoli to continue to function properly, and (4) removes CO2 from the bloodstream. COD will be delivered in 200ml doses over time by (1) the patient breathing in aerosolized spray over ~10 minutes via inhalation or an endotracheal (or similar) tube via a ventilator. Aerosol delivery of LPCs is well studied and known to dramatically improve lung function for patients with a variety of lung ailments, including ARDS, pneumonia, asthma, and anaphylaxis. While the COD will become a vital life-saving device on the battlefield, it will also be extremely useful for use in ambulances, emergency rooms, and intensive care units where ARDS is common and deadly.