An amazing new device could solve huge problems for tiny babies who are at risk for brain damage.

Thomas Jefferson University Hospital participated in the initial studies of the "cool cap," and the cap is currently helping a baby who was born on Thursday.

James Vincent Pyrih had a terrible struggle getting into this world when he was born. Luckily, his doctors knew he had to be sent to Jefferson Hospital right away to take advantage of the breakthrough device.

"They woke me up after surgery and told me he might not survive," said Theresa Pyrih.

When Pyrih was in labor, her placenta separated. James was deprived of oxygen and began bleeding to death. The doctors delivered him, resuscitated him and rushed him to Jefferson Hospital

"He was classified as critical on admission. He was intubated on a respirator, unable to breath on his own. Also, he had severe anemia and, on examination, it was clear he had evidence of significant brain injury," said Dr. Susan Adeniyi-Jones.

Many babies like James die, end up with cerebral palsy or are unable to walk, see or learn. Before the cool cap, there was no treatment. Cold water runs through the cap to cool baby's brain.

A nationwide study, in which Jefferson Hospital participated, showed amazing results.

"There was a 60 percent reduction in the number of babies who had a severe neurological handicap or died as a result of the severe brain injury," said Adeniyi-Jones.

"Yes, it's really quite shocking. Now we really have something that has quite remarkable results in a small, limited number of babies we've studied so far," said Dr. Jay Greenspan, the director of neonatology at Jefferson Hospital.

The baby has to have the cool cap on within six hours of birth and then wears it for 72 hours. It works on the same principle as putting ice on an injury.

James has no guarantees, but doctors are already seeing recovery in his brain's electrical activity.

"It's a miracle. I just want the miracle to follow through now," Pyrih said.