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Risk factors for symptomatic otic and sinus barotrauma in a multiplace hyperbaric chamber
D T Fitzpatrick1, B A Franck, K T Mason
1Department of Hyperbaric Medicine, Lyster Army Community Hospital, Fort Rucker, Alabama, USA.
Summary
Female patients and those under 40 face higher risks of symptomatic barotrauma during hyperbaric oxygen therapy. Early treatments and faster compression rates may also increase the likelihood of these adverse events.
Area of Science:
- Hyperbaric Medicine
- Patient Safety
Background:
- Barotrauma is a known risk of hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT).
- Understanding predisposing factors and compression rates is crucial for patient safety.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between compression rates and predisposing factors for symptomatic barotrauma in HBOT.
- To identify patient groups at increased risk.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 2,394 HBOT treatments over 3 years for 111 patients.
- Analysis of symptomatic barotrauma incidence, compression rates, and patient demographics.
Main Results:
- Overall barotrauma rate was 3.05 per 100 treatments, predominantly affecting ears.
- Females (RR=2.14) and patients under 40 (RR=3.00) showed significantly increased risk.
- Increased compression rate showed a non-significant trend toward higher risk (RR=1.57).
Conclusions:
- Female sex and younger age (<40) are significant risk factors for barotrauma during HBOT.
- Further prospective studies are needed to confirm risk factors and optimize compression protocols.