The use of cardiopulmonary bypass within the framework of resuscitation justifies hopes for better results after cardiovascular arrest. By restituting sufficient cardiovascular conditions both the global and especially the cerebral blood flow situation are improved, so that, in turn, better neurological results can be expected after cardiopulmonary resuscitation. However, further decisive successes by using the cardiopulmonary bypass can be expected only in connection with new therapeutic concepts of reanimation.