Hyperoxi

Hyperoxi, usually referring to hyperoxia, is the condition in which tissues or the body are exposed to higher than normal levels of oxygen. In medical contexts this is typically achieved by increasing the inspiratory fraction of oxygen (FiO2) through masks, nasal cannulas, ventilators, or by placing a patient in a hyperbaric oxygen chamber. Mild hyperoxia can support oxygen delivery in hypoxic states, while more intensive therapy is used for specific conditions.

Clinical uses of hyperoxi include management of carbon monoxide poisoning, resuscitation after cardiac arrest, treatment of decompression sickness, wound healing in some chronic or infected wounds, and certain acute or refractory neurological or ocular conditions. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT), where patients breathe 100% oxygen at elevated ambient pressures, is a distinct modality employed for these indications and for some types of gas gangrene and other anaerobic infections.

Risks and considerations are important in hyperoxi. Prolonged exposure to high FiO2 or high-pressure oxygen can cause oxygen toxicity, affecting the lungs (pulmonary oxygen toxicity) and the central nervous system. In vulnerable populations such as preterm infants, excessive oxygen can contribute to retinopathy of prematurity. Other concerns include absorption atelectasis and oxidative stress. Clinicians tailor oxygen therapy to maintain adequate tissue oxygenation while limiting exposure.

Monitoring typically involves pulse oximetry, arterial blood gas analysis, and careful adjustment of FiO2 and duration. The goal is to achieve sufficient oxygenation without triggering toxicity. See also hyperbaric oxygen therapy and oxygen toxicity.