Hyperbarism

Hyperbarism refers to exposure to pressures greater than sea level atmospheric pressure. In medical contexts, it is practiced in hyperbaric medicine using chambers that allow patients to breathe oxygen or other gas mixtures at pressures above 1 atmosphere absolute (ATA). The most common form is hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT), in which a patient breathes 100 percent oxygen at pressures typically between 2.0 and 3.0 ATA.

HBOT increases dissolved oxygen in plasma, improving delivery to hypoxic tissues even when blood oxygenation is limited. The combination of high oxygen and pressure can enhance antimicrobial activity, promote wound healing, and reduce edema through vasoconstriction. These effects support several clinical applications, including improved tissue viability and infection control under certain conditions.

HBOT is established for decompression illness and arterial gas embolism, and it is routinely used for carbon monoxide poisoning with significant hypoxia. It is also used as an adjunct for selected conditions such as non-healing wounds, radiation-induced tissue injury, crush injuries, and certain soft tissue infections, though indications and access vary by country and protocol.

Chambers may be monoplace (one person) or multiplace (several). Treatments require trained personnel and monitoring. Potential risks include barotrauma to the ears and sinuses, dental or sinus injuries, oxygen toxicity leading to seizures, pulmonary toxicity with prolonged exposure, claustrophobia, and fire hazards in oxygen-rich environments. Untreated pneumothorax is a major contraindication.