Preparation

Before therapy can be started, various tests must be performed to determine suitability for pressure. Each patient is physically examined, with a special focus on the heart and lungs. In addition, a resting ECG and a pulmonary function test are arranged.

The middle ear is assessed to ensure that pressure compensation can be successfully performed. Under certain circumstances, a sound pressure measurement and an ear examination are also performed. In addition, an X-ray examination of the chest must be available, which must not be older than two years.

The presence of contraindications must also be excluded. These include, for example, bronchial asthma, hyperinflation of the lungs or a recent heart attack. No flammable objects, e.g. tobacco or electronics, may be taken into the chamber. Removable aids such as contact lenses and hearing aids must also be removed before entering the chamber.

Procedure of hyperbaric oxygen therapy

The hyperbaric oxygen therapy can take place either in a single chamber or in a multi-person chamber. In either case, the patient has the possibility to contact the staff via an intercom system during the entire treatment. As soon as the patients are seated in the pressure chamber, the air pressure in the chamber is slowly increased.

During this time, the patient regularly balances the pressure by swallowing or Valsalva maneuver (attempt to exhale with mouth closed and nose closed). Chewing chewing gum can also facilitate pressure equalization. Once the target pressure is reached, the patient puts on an oxygen mask and breathes in through this 100% oxygen.

Depending on the duration of the treatment, pauses can be made in which air of the usual composition is inhaled. To ensure the success of the treatment and for the safety of the patient, the oxygen partial pressure of the patient is continuously monitored.During the treatment phase, the patient can read or listen to music. After completion of the treatment, the pressure is slowly lowered back to normal air pressure values. Depending on the indication and therapy scheme, several sessions are performed, all following the same procedure.