Hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) therapy is a mode of medical treatment in which the patient breathes 100% oxygen at pressures greater than normal atmospheric (sea level) pressure. During HBO exposure the tissue oxygen tension increases considerably both in normal tissues and tissues in which circulation have been damaged, but not obliterated. It has been used effectively in treating a variety of acute and chronic medical and surgical conditions.

HBO therapy has been administered since 1969 in Turku University Hospital. We are the only National Centre of HBO therapy. Our well-trained staff and appropriate equipment makes it possible to treat critically ill patients safely in hyperbaric environment.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFICIAL EFFECTS?

HBO therapy
- provides large amount of oxygen to hypoxic tissues
- enhances wound healing by stimulating fibroblastic growth,                                                             collagen synthesis and neovascularization
- compresses gas/air bubbles  and aids in their elimination
- enhances antimicrobial activity to inhibit infection
- encourages leukocyte functioning to fight against infection
- induces vasoconstriction to reduce swelling
- neutralizes effects of poisons and toxins at the cellular level

MEDICAL HBO TREATMENT INDICATIONS:

1. Air or gas embolism
2. Decompression sickness
3. Gas gangrene and other necrotizing soft tissue infections
4. Carbon monoxide and cyanide poisoning
5. Refractory osteomyelitis
6. Osteoradionecrosis
7. Serious acute traumatic tissue ischemia (e.g. crush injury)
8. Enhancement of healing in selected problem wounds      (e.g. diabetic ulcers)
9. Sudden deafness

HOW IS HBO THERAPY ADMINISTERED?

HBO is administered in either a multiplace or monoplace chamber. The patient breathes pure oxygen at 2.5 atmospheres absolute pressure for 90 minutes. In serious necrotizing infections three such treatments are given during the first 24 hours after admission. Thereafter usually 1- 2 treatments are given daily. Five to 10 treatments are usually sufficient. In some indications patients can get even 20 – 40 treatments. If needed, intensive critical care can be continued in the chamber. Also ventilator therapy is possible.

TURKU UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL, INTENSIVE CARE UNIT FOR ADULTSKIINAMYLLYNKATU 4 – 8, 20520 TURKU, FINLANDTEL. + 358-2-313 1950, FAX. +358-2-313 3222HBO THERAPY AND CONSULTATION HELP IS AVAILABLE 24 HOURS A DAY, 7 DAYS A WEEK