Survival After Prolonged Submersion in Cold Water Without Neurologic Sequelae

We describe two patients who suffered prolonged (greater than four minutes) submersion in cold water (25 minutes, 32 s, and six minutes, respectively), with complete neurologic recovery. We postulate that hypothermia served to protect the brain from hypoxic injury. These cases also serve to emphasize the need for vigorous on-the-scene resuscitative efforts. We review the problems associated with the treatment of hypothermia and drowning. (Arch Intern Med140:775-779, 1980)