HBOT Indications And Contraindications
In order to prevent backlash from a strict scientific approach protecting patients from indiscriminate use, professional hyperbaric organizations had to establish guidelines for the employment of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy.
Approved Indications
The Undersea and Hyperbaric Medical Society (UHMS) recognizes hyperbaric oxygen therapy as a primary or adjunctive treatment for the following conditions:
- Air or Gas Embolism
- Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
- Clostridial Myositis and Myonecrosis (Gas Gangrene)
- Crush Injury, Compartment Syndrome
- Decompression Sickness
- Arterial Insufficiencies
- Severe Anemia
- Intracranial Abscess
- Necrotizing Soft Tissue Infections
- Refractory Osteomyelitis
- Delayed Radiation Injury
- Compromised Grafts and Flaps
- Acute Thermal Burn Injury
- Idiopathic Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss
Off-Label Uses
Many practitioners and researchers advocate for HBOT in conditions beyond the approved list, including:
- Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
- Stroke
- Cerebral Palsy
- Autism Spectrum Disorders
- Multiple Sclerosis
- Fibromyalgia
Contraindications
The only absolute contraindication to hyperbaric oxygen therapy is untreated pneumothorax.
Relative contraindications include:
- Upper respiratory infections
- Chronic sinusitis
- Fever
- Emphysema with CO2 retention
- History of spontaneous pneumothorax
- Pregnancy
For detailed medical information, consult with a qualified hyperbaric medicine physician or visit the Undersea and Hyperbaric Medical Society (UHMS) website.