What is hyperbaric oxygen?
Hyperbaric oxygen (HBOT) is a treatment where pure oxygen is inhaled in an environment with pressure higher than normal atmospheric pressure (1 atm). By increasing pressure, more oxygen dissolves in blood and tissues to improve hypoxia and promote repair。
Core functions:
Oxygen supply: Under normal pressure, oxygen is transported by red blood cells. Under high pressure, oxygen dissolves directly in blood, rapidly supplying oxygen to hypoxic tissues.
Tissue repair: Accelerates new blood vessel growth to aid wound healing (e.g., trauma, diabetic foot).
Antibacterial effect: Inhibits anaerobic bacteria (e.g., Clostridium tetani) to assist in treating infections.
Common uses:
Emergency: Acute hypoxia like carbon monoxide poisoning or asphyxia.
Chronic conditions: Cerebral ischemia, spinal cord injury, radiation-induced tissue damage.
Infections: Severe infections like gas gangrene (needs antibiotics).
Equipment and safety:
Hyperbaric chamber: Single-person or multi-person (requires masks for oxygen inhalation).
Pressure: Typically 2–3 atm, 60–120 minutes per session, needing multiple sessions.
Caution: May cause ear/sinus pain; ear pressure adjustment is required before treatment.
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