From the Research
The FDA has approved hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) for specific medical conditions, including decompression sickness, arterial gas embolism, carbon monoxide poisoning, and others, as supported by recent reviews such as 1. These indications include:
- Air or gas embolism
- Carbon monoxide poisoning
- Gas gangrene
- Crush injury
- Decompression sickness
- Arterial insufficiencies (including central retinal artery occlusion)
- Severe anemia
- Intracranial abscess
- Necrotizing soft tissue infections
- Osteomyelitis (refractory)
- Delayed radiation injury
- Compromised skin grafts and flaps
- Thermal burns
HBOT involves breathing pure oxygen in a pressurized chamber where atmospheric pressure is increased to 2-3 times normal levels, as described in 2 and 3. This allows the lungs to gather more oxygen than would be possible at normal air pressure, helping blood carry this extra oxygen throughout the body to fight bacteria and stimulate the release of growth factors and stem cells, which promote healing. Treatment protocols vary by condition but typically involve 90-120 minute sessions at pressures of 2.0-2.5 atmospheres absolute (ATA), with patients undergoing anywhere from 5 to 40 treatments depending on their specific condition and response to therapy, as indicated in 1. HBOT should be administered by trained medical professionals in certified facilities due to potential risks including ear and sinus pain, temporary nearsightedness, claustrophobia, and rarely, oxygen toxicity or lung damage. The use of HBOT in medical emergencies, including its development in various regions, has been discussed in studies such as 3, highlighting the importance of increased awareness and access to this therapy. Overall, HBOT is a valuable treatment option for various medical conditions, and its use should be considered based on the latest evidence and guidelines, such as those supported by 1.