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[Hyperbaric oxygen treatment for radiation reactions]
L Aanderud1, E Thorsen, G Brattebø
1Yrkesmedisinsk avdeling Haukeland Sykehus, Bergen.
Summary
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) can significantly improve radiation-induced side effects like rectal bleeding and hematuria. This treatment offers an alternative for patients with symptomatic bladder and bowel radiation reactions.
Area of Science:
- Hyperbaric medicine
- Radiation oncology
- Vascular biology
Context:
- A national hyperbaric center was established in Norway in 1994.
- Hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) therapy promotes collagen formation and angiogenesis in hypoxic tissues.
- This can lead to improved local microcirculation and healing of radiation-induced tissue damage.
Purpose:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBO) for radiation-induced reactions in the pelvic area.
- To assess patient outcomes for specific symptoms such as rectal bleeding, hematuria, and bladder incontinence.
Summary:
- In 1997, 47 patients with pelvic radiation reactions received HBO treatment at Haukeland Hospital.
- A questionnaire was administered 3-15 months post-treatment, with an 81% response rate.
- Significant improvements were reported: 61% for rectal bleeding, 55% for hematuria, and 46% for bladder incontinence.
Impact:
- Hyperbaric oxygen therapy demonstrates potential as an alternative treatment for symptomatic radiation reactions of the urinary bladder and bowel.
- It may be particularly beneficial when conventional therapies yield unsatisfactory results.
- This study highlights the role of HBO in managing chronic radiation sequelae.