CHT Hyperbaric Medicine and Indications Flashcards

Which of the following is an approved indication for hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT)?

Answer: Carbon monoxide poisoning

Carbon monoxide poisoning is a well-established and FDA-approved indication for hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT). HBOT is highly effective because it rapidly displaces carbon monoxide from hemoglobin and significantly increases the amount of dissolved oxygen in the blood plasma. This allows oxygen to reach tissues even when hemoglobin is compromised, mitigating the severe effects of poisoning.

What is the primary physiological effect of hyperbaric oxygen therapy?

Answer: Increases plasma oxygen concentration

The primary physiological effect of hyperbaric oxygen therapy is to significantly increase the partial pressure of oxygen in the blood plasma. Under increased atmospheric pressure, more oxygen dissolves directly into the plasma, allowing it to reach tissues that may be poorly perfused or hypoxic, independent of hemoglobin binding. This enhanced oxygen delivery is central to its therapeutic benefits.

Which condition is considered a contraindication to HBOT?

Answer: Pneumothorax

An untreated pneumothorax, or collapsed lung, is an absolute contraindication to hyperbaric oxygen therapy. The increased pressure during HBOT could cause the trapped air in the pleural space to expand further upon decompression, according to Boyle's Law. This expansion can lead to a tension pneumothorax, which is a life-threatening condition requiring immediate medical intervention.

How does HBOT aid in wound healing?

Answer: Promotes angiogenesis

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy aids in wound healing by significantly increasing tissue oxygen levels, which is crucial for various cellular processes involved in repair. One key mechanism is the promotion of angiogenesis, the formation of new blood vessels. This improved blood supply to the wound area facilitates the delivery of essential nutrients and immune cells, accelerating the healing process.

What condition is HBOT commonly used to treat in diabetic patients?

Answer: Diabetic foot ulcers

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) is commonly used to treat diabetic foot ulcers because it delivers high concentrations of oxygen to compromised tissues. This increased oxygenation promotes wound healing, stimulates new blood vessel formation (angiogenesis), and enhances the body's ability to fight infection. For diabetic patients with poor circulation and chronic non-healing ulcers, HBOT can significantly improve outcomes by addressing the underlying hypoxia.

Which mechanism explains the reduction of gas embolism risk with HBOT?

Answer: Boyle’s Law compression of gas bubbles

Boyle's Law states that at a constant temperature, the volume of a gas is inversely proportional to the pressure exerted on it. In HBOT, the increased ambient pressure causes gas bubbles, such as those in a gas embolism, to compress and shrink in size. This reduction in volume allows the bubbles to pass more easily through blood vessels or be reabsorbed into the bloodstream, thereby reducing their obstructive and damaging effects.