Frequency of Side Effects in Patients Treated with Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy, Isfahan, Iran

Abstract

Background: Hyperbaric oxygen therapy induces treatment effects through producing oxygen pressure higher than 1.4 atmosphere. It is used for different kinds of conditions such as air embolism, carbon monoxide poisoning, gas gangrene, crush injury, compartment syndrome, acute traumatic ischemia, diabetic foot ulcer, necrotizing soft tissue infection, and osteomyelitis. This study aimed at determining the frequency distribution of side effects of hyperbaric oxygen therapy. Methods: This analytic-descriptive study was conducted on patients referring to Bahar Hyperbaric Oxygen Center during April 2009-September 2011. Profiles of 122 patients were finally evaluated. Findings: While 103 patients (84.4%) had no side effects, 19 subjects (25.6%) had side effects (17 cases of ear barotrauma, one case of seizure, and one case of oxygen toxicity). None of the patients had pulmonary barotrauma or blurred vision. Conclusion: With regard to the limited side effects of hyperbaric oxygen therapy and its significant benefits, the use of this method is recommended. However, further studies in this field warranted.

Keywords

• Hyperbaric oxygen therapy
• Complications
• Benefits